























































































































(lass Gr I ~S 

Book_ >M £ % 

/S33 













































































































































































STAGES OF SOCIETY 





Half-civilized 


Civilized and enlightened 





























































MITCHELL’S SCHOOL GEOGRAPHY 


A SYSTEM OF 


MODERN GEOGRAPHY, 

COMPRISING A DESCRIPTION OF THE PRESENT STATE OF THE 

WORLD, 

AND ITS FIVE GREAT DIVISIONS, 
AMERICA, EUROPE, ASIA, AFRICA, AND OCEANIC A, 

WITH THEIR SEVERAL 

EMPIRES, KINGDOMS, STATES, TERRITORIES, &c. 


THE WHOLE 

EMBELLISHED BY NUMEROUS ENGRAVING 


Of various interesting objects of Nature and Art; together with representations 
of Remarkable and Noted Events. 



SIMPLIFIED AND ADAPTED TO THE CAPACITY OF YOUTH. 


ILLUSTRATED BY AN 

ATLAS OF SIXTEEN MAPS, 


DRAWN AND ENGRAVED TO ACCOMPANY THE WORK. 


BY S. AUGUSTUS MITCHELL. 


) > > 

PHILADELPHIA: 

THOMAS, COWPERTHWAIT, & CO. 
1839 . 


;■ M 








Entered, according to the Act of Congress, in the year 1839, 
BY S. AUGUSTUS MITCHELL, 

In the clerk’s office of the district court of the eastern district of 

Pennsylvania. 



STEREOTYPED BY J. FAGAN.PHILADELPHIA. 

PRINTED BY J. KAY, JUN. AND BROTHER. 

( 4 ) 








PREFACE. 


At no former period, has the science of Geography been considered of 
more importance, as a branch of elementary education, than at the present 
time ; and its value and utility are so obvious as to require but little illustra¬ 
tion. Perhaps no study is better calculated to awaken and cherish that spirit 
of curiosity and inquiry which is so natural to the youthful mind ; and none, 
under proper regulation and tuition, affords a better prospect of leading to 
useful and important results. 

Within the last twelve or fifteen years, the great attention paid to geogra¬ 
phy in our principal schools and seminaries, has been the means of producing 
several meritorious works on this subject. They have each their respective 
peculiarities and excellencies; and are generally well calculated to aid the 
scholar in his progress towards acquiring a considerable knowledge of that 
interesting science. They ought not, however, to be regarded as superseding 
all further endeavours in this department of usefulness, or as discouraging 
any well intended efforts of others to do good in a similar way. 

Geography is, more than any other science, in its nature constantly pro¬ 
gressive; and hence, demands unceasing diligence on the part of those whoso 
attention is directed to the publication of works connected with it A con¬ 
siderable deficiency, in this respect, is observable in some of the most popular 
school geographies now in use in this country. 

Several fail in representing various parts of the world, according to their 
actual subdivisions at the present day. Even the divisions of our own coun¬ 
try are not accurately laid down ; and, in the exhibition of'the South American 
States, there is a general deficiency. Australia, or New Holland, though 
divided by the British government, a number of years ago, into two great 
sections, is neither described nor represented in that way in any school geo¬ 
graphy extant. 

Important misstatements have been also observed in some of the works 
alluded to, which have doubtless escaped the observation of their authors; 
and, though they do not essentially detract from the merits of their respective 
works, must still be regarded as material blemishes. In one work, (edition 
of 1838,) it is asserted, that the western part of the State of Tennessee is in¬ 
habited by the Chickasaw Indians—that w ild horses and buffaloes abound in 
Arkansas—that the greatest part of the State of Alabama is inhabited by the 
Choctaw, Cherokee, and Creek Indians; and that the interior of Newfound¬ 
land is inhabited'by the Red Indians. All these statements were true, a num¬ 
ber of years ago; but are not so at the present day. 

The Mississippi Valley, or the country extending from the Rocky to ths 
Allegheny Mountains, is described, in the same work, as being more than 
3,000 miles wide. Yet the whole continent, from ocean to ocean, measured 
across the centre of the valley in question, is only 2,600 miles in extent. 

The Boa Constrictor is enumerated as one of the animals found in Africa. 
It is stated, that the largest are about 80 feet long; and besides deer, dogs, 
and bullocks, even horses with their riders are said to he destroyed by this 
enormous serpent; both expiring together in the same fatal fold of the mon¬ 
ster ! This is a mere popular fallacy, unsupported by any authentic testimony; 
and certainly ought not to be inserted in a w r ORK on elementary education. 

In another work, the population of the Ionian Islands is stated to be 800,000; 
wdiile, in fact, it is less than one-lourth of that amount. Another school geo¬ 
graphy describes the island of Teneriffe as one of the Cape V erd islands; 
while, in fact, it is one of the Canaries. Nor are the atlases less erroneous 

( 5 ) 



VI 


PREFACE 


than the descriptive geography has been shown to be. The maps of South 
America, in two of them, represent the river Amazon as flowing from Lake 
Titicaca: this is a positive error ; it being well known that the head waters 
of the Amazon river are entirely separated from the lake above-mentioned, 
by ranges of the highest mountains in South America. 

The population of the cities and towns, in several maps, is assumed, in some 
cases, as double, and in others, only one-half the amount stated by the most 
authentic writers: some places, of which we know nothing certain, and others 
whose very existence is problematical, are exhibited as containing a definite 
number of inhabitants. 

A very great disproportion is likewise observed in the lengths of the courses 
given to many of the rivers;—some stated as 500 or 600 miles long, are repre¬ 
sented as absolutely shorter than others of 300 or 400 miles in their imme¬ 
diate proximity. 

The above-mentioned errors and misstatements, although among the most 
prominent that have been detected, form but a tithe of what really exist in 
the very popular works in which they have been found. 

In this exposition, the author trusts he is not actuated by an invidious or 
malignant spirit; for, while he exhibits freely the incorrectness of some works, 
he willingly bears testimony to the general accuracy and excellence of others. 
He believes that he has gone far to establish his position, that a want of at¬ 
tention is observable in the compilation of some of the most popular school 
geographies extant, and that improvements may still be made in works of this 
kind. He does not by any means expect to escape errors himself; but hopes, 
by a close attention to the revision of his work, as it comes from the press, to 
avoid any so far removed from the truth as those above stated. 

Essential errors or misstatements, in works on elementary education, can 
hardly be compensated by any excellencies they may possess; and, when it 
is considered that the ideas impressed on the mind of youth, in the study and 
perusal of these works, will undoubtedly, in numerous instances, be retained 
in after-life, the importance of accurate statements becomes apparent. 

The introduction of a great variety of books into schools, in the same de¬ 
partment of knowledge, by rendering the information uncertain, the expense 
greater, and the progress less rapid, is an evil of which many have complained. 
To obviate this, the author has resolved to give his work a periodical revi¬ 
sion, commencing with the next census of the United States; which will be 
repeated, and continued regularly once in five years thereafter, for the pur¬ 
pose of embodying all the facts that the most recent discoveries or political 
changes may clevelope, and all well-settled improvements in teaching. 

The present form of the work will be preserved as nearly as possible; so 
that its improvement shall afford no impediment to the progress of the pupil. 

'The author has endeavoured, as far as the limits prescribed for his work 
would permit, to describe the various political divisions of the earth, according 
to the views exhibited in the latest and most authentic works on the subject. 

The maps, comprising the atlas, are all from original drawings, and are 
especially adapted to the work. They are carefully engraved, in a neat and 
distinct manner. Those illustrating Palestine and Liberia are not usually 
found in atlases of this kind ; and, from the interesting associations connected 
with the countries they represent, will, no doubt, be found useful. The map 
of Oceanica is compiled with direct reference to the important religious and 
moral changes which have taken place in the principal islands of that inte¬ 
resting region within the last twenty years. This map has not been introduced 
into any school atlas extant in accordance w T ith those remarkable circum¬ 
stances. 

The pictorial illustrations are chiefly from original drawings, and are en¬ 
graved by the best artists in the country. Many of these embrace a number 


PREFACE 


vii 


of leading objects in nature and art, and others elucidate important facts 
stated in the body of the work. A few, it will be perceived, are of a national 
character: these illustrate some of the most important incidents in the history 
of our country, and will associate, in the mind of the pupil, in a striking and 
impressive manner, with the characteristic features of the states to which 
they are attached. 

Teachers will observe that the work throughout is divided into short 
sections, such as are considered sufficient for one lesson, w hich are marked for 
the purpose of saving the teacher the trouble of designating them. They 
are gradually enlarged during the progress of the work, so as to correspond 
with the increased capacity of the pupil. 

Those who may conceive a single section insufficient for a lesson, may 
give two or more at once. The plan has been adopted at the suggestion of 
several experienced teachers, and will no doubt be found useful. 

Nearly all the maps belonging to the atlas have scales of miles attached to 
them, by the aid of which, with a pair of compasses, or the edge of a slip 
of paper, the learner may measure the length and breadth of countries, 
islands, seas, gulfs, Ac. This will give variety to the exercises, and impress 
on the mind of the pupil in a more decided manner than by any other method, 
many valuable particulars that, if inserted in the geography, would increase 
its dimensions much beyond its prescribed limits. 

Considerable care has been bestow ed on the construction and execution 
of the Allas. The geographical features of the maps have been obtained 
from the latest authorities, and those who are critically acquainted with 
modern maps, will perceive many new items of information elucidating im¬ 
portant facts not to be found in any other school geography extant. 

The engraving has been executed by the best artists in that line in the 
country, who have used every endeavour to render the lettering clear, dis¬ 
tinct, and easily understood, a matter of some moment to the pupil, w ho is 
frequently much perplexed in ascertaining the names of places, when inserted 
among the dark and obscure shading so common in the maps of many school 
geographies. 

The characters designating the location of some of the most important 
events connected with the history of our country, are new' in works of this 
kind; and with the annexed dates, will render the maps useful to those pu¬ 
pils studying the history of the United States. 

The distances from the countries on one continent to those on others, in 
the same parallels of latitude, are interesting as pointing out the width of the 
oceans, seas, Ac., that separate the chief divisions of the earth. 

The population of cities and towns, the length of rivers, the heights and 
extent of mountains, Ac., are all derived from the most authentic sources; 
and the plan adopted to illustrate these various particulars, is probably as 
simple and easily understood as can well be devised. 

The author has omitted to mention the number of the counties into which 
the several states, Ac.., are divided, or asking the learner that question; as the 
number, particularly in the Southern and Western States, is continually in¬ 
creasing. in a very popular school geography, (edition of 1838,) the counties 
in Mississippi are stated as amounting to 26, Alabama 36, Georgia 76, and Ar¬ 
kansas 30; while in the Map of the Southern States accompanying this work, 
the numbers are respectively 56, 48, 90, and 35,—thus making an increase 
of 61 counties In four states only. 


INTRODUCTION 


Geography is a description of the world, with its inhabitants and 
productions. It is not only an entertaining and curious, but highly 
useful study. It opens and enlarges the mind ; gives a true knowledge 
of the various situations of countries, with their rivers, mountains, &c.; 
and is of such importance in history, that without it, nothing can be 
understood with either satisfaction or correctness. 

It must have attracted the attention of mankind at a very early pe¬ 
riod. The desire to become acquainted with the country they lived in, 
and to determine and establish its boundaries, would naturally direct 
their attention to it 

The study of Geography will enable young persons, when they hear 
of distant countries, to tell where they are situated—what are their pro¬ 
ductions—how they are governed, and what kind of people live there. 
To know these things is very important; and will give all who are 
acquainted with them an advantage over those who possess not such 
knowledge: it will be a satisfaction to themselves and to their parents; 
and will be a proof that they have attended well to their studies. 

TO THE PUPIL. 

The engraving on the opposite page is a picture of one side of our 
earth, as it would appear if seen from a great distance. It rolls like an 
immense ball through the heavens, surrounded on every side by the 
planets and the countless myriads of stars, all performing their stated 
motions under the guidance of the great Creator who first called them 
into existence. 

Men live on, and are constantly walking about, this great ball, the 
earth. Cities and towns are built on it; trees and plants grow on it; 
and ships sail on the sea: yet the earth is all the time turning round 
and round, as if you rolled a ball or an apple on the floor, or threw it from 
you into the air. All this is true; but it is hard to understand. It is 
done by the power of God, who made us, and all things on the earth, 
with the sun, the moon, and the vast multitude of stars we see in the 
sky. “ In the beginning, God created the heaven and the earth; the 
heavens, and all the host of them.” Gen. I. II. 


(8) 



MITCHELL’S SCHOOL GEOGRAPHY 


PART FIRST. 


GEOGRAPHICAL DEFINITIONS. 



- 1 - 

1. What is Geography ? 

Ans. It is a description of the surface of the Earth. 

2. What is the surface of the Earth ? 

A. It is the part on which we live. 

3. How is the surface of the Earth divided ? 

A. Into land and water. 

4. How much of the earth’s surface is Land ? 

A. About one-fourth part: the remainder is water. 

On the map of the World, No. 1., in the Atlas, you will see that 
there is a great deal more water than land on the earth. The coloured 
part shows the land; the rest is water. 

(9) 




























10 


GEOGRAPHICAL DEFINITIONS. 


5. How much more water than land is there on the Earth ? 

A. There is at least three times more water than land. 

6. What is the name given to the whole of the water on the surface 
of the earth ? 

A. It is called the Sea, or Ocean. 

7. Is the water of the Ocean salt or fresh ? 

A. It is salt. 

8. How does the Ocean appear ? 

A. It appears blue and boundless, like the sky. 

9. How wide is it ? 

A. It is so wide, that ships may sail for weeks, and even 
months, on it, without coming to land. 

10. In what way does the Ocean benefit mankind ? 

A. The numerous fishes, with the great whales, and the 
other animals that live in the ocean, furnish food and employ¬ 
ment to many millions of the human family. 

11. For what purpose do ships sail on the Ocean ? 

A. They carry the productions of our own country to other 
parts of the world, and bring back in return things that are 
useful to us. 

12. What do our ships take to other countries ? 

A. They take cotton, flour, tobacco, rice, and many other 
articles. 

13. What do they bring back in return ? 

A. From some countries, they bring woollen, cotton, and 
silk goods, which are useful to us for clothing; from some, 
coffee and sugar; and from others, gold and silver, of which 
our money is made. 


- 2 - 

14. What is the trade carried on in ships called ? 

A. It is called Commerce, and is highly useful to mankind. 

15. How is it useful ? 

A. It gives employment to vast numbers of men; and by 
it we become acquainted with other parts of the Earth. 

16. In what other way does the Ocean benefit mankind? 

A. The vapour or fog which rises from the ocean, forms 
rain, which waters the earth, and fills our springs and rivers. 




GEOGRAPHICAL DEFINITIONS 


11 


17. Why is the rain fresh, while the water of the Ocean is salt? 

A. The fresh part only of the Ocean forms rain; the salt 
is not raised to the clouds. 

This shows the goodness of God, and how wisely he has created all 
things for our use. 


NATURAL DIVISIONS OF WATER. 



The Ocean. 


18. How is the Ocean divided ? 

A. Into five great parts, likewise called Oceans. 

19. Which are the five Oceans ? 

A. They are the Northern, Southern, Atlantic, Pacific, and 
Indian Oceans. 

20. What other names have some of the Oceans ? 

A. The Northern is often called the Arctic, and theJSouth- 
ern, the Antarctic Ocean ; and the Pacific Ocean is sometimes 
called the South Sea. 

21. Into what other parts is the water divided ? 

A. Into Seas, Archipelagoes,* Bays, Gulfs, Sounds, Straits, 
Channels, Lakes, and Rivers. 

22. What is a Sea ? 

A. It is a collection of water, smaller than an ocean, and 

* Archipelagoes, pronounced Ar-ke-pcl-a-goes. 


























12 


GEOGRAPHICAL DEFINITIONS, 


surrounded by land, as the Mediterranean Sea, the Black 
Sea, &c. 

23. What is an Archipelago ? 

A. It is a sea filled with islands, as the Grecian Archipel¬ 
ago, east of Greece, or the West Indies, which is sometimes 
called the Columbian Archipelago. 

24. What is a Gulf or Bay ? 

A. It is a part of the Sea, extending into the land, as the 
Gulf of Mexico, Hudson’s Bay. 

25. What is a Strait ? 

A. It is a narrow passage, connecting different bodies of 
water, as the Strait of Gibraltar, &c. 

26. What is a Sound ? 


A. It is a small sea, so shallow that its depth may be mea¬ 
sured by a line dropped from the surface to the bottom, as 

Long Island Sound, 
Pamlico Sound. 

27. What is a 
Channel ? 

A. It is a pas¬ 
sage of water, wi¬ 
der than a Strait, 
as the English 
AHarbour - Channel. 

28. What is a Harbour or Haven ? 

A. It is a small bay, where vessels may remain at anchor 
in safety. 

-3- 




A Lake. 

29. What is a Lake ? 

A. It is a collection of water, entirely surrounded by land, 






GEOGRAPHICAL DEFINITIONS. 


13 


as Lake Superior, Lake Winnipeg, or the Lake of Geneva, 
in Switzerland. 

30. Where are the largest Lakes to be found ? 

A. In North America: they are so wide and deep, that the 
largest ships may sail on them. 

31. Is the water of lakes salt or fresh ? 

A. Lakes are both salt and fresh : of the latter, the largest 
is Lake Superior. 

32. Which is the largest salt lake ? 

A. The Caspian Lake, or sea, in Asia. Salt lakes, when 
large, are commonly called seas, as the Sea of Aral, the Dead 
Sea, &c. 

33. How do lakes discharge their waters ? 

A. Fresh-water lakes generally discharge their waters 
through a river into the ocean; but salt lakes have seldom 
any outlet. 



■Scrarce or Head, 
of alliver* 

fe. Spring 


Town. 


■River 


34. What is a river ? 

A. A stream of fresh water, running from springs or from 
lakes, into the ocean, as the Mississippi, the Amazon, &c. 

35. How are rivers formed ? 

A. By numerous small branches, flowing from mountains 
or hills. 

36. What are the small branches of rivers called ? 

A. Brooks and creeks. 

37. What is the place where a river empties into the se^ called ? 

* A. Its mouth; and where it rises, its source or head. 

38. What is the place through which a river flows called ? 

A. Its bed, or channel. 









14 


GEOGRAPHICAL DEFINITIONS 



Falls of Passaic. 


When rivers flow down steep or perpendicular banks, they form falls 
or cataracts, as the falls of Niagara, the falls of the Passaic, and others. 

39. What is a Canal ? 

A. It is a wide ditch or channel, filled with water, through 
which boats convey travellers and goods from one town to 
another. 



Canal and Lock. 


40. Where are Canals most numerous ? 

A. In the United States, Great Britain, and Holland 

41. Which is the largest Canal in the world ? 

A. The Imperial Canal, in China. 

42. Which are the largest Canals in the United States ? 

A. The Erie Canal, in New York; and the Pennsylvania 
Canal, in the State of Pennsylvania. 














geographical definitions. 15 

- 4 - 

NATURAL DIVISIONS OF LAND. 

43. How is the land surface of the earth divided? 

A. Into two great di visions, ; —the Eastern and Western 
continents. 

44. What does the Eastern continent comprise ? 

A. Europe, Asia, and Africa. 

45. What does the Western continent comprise ? 

A. North America and South America. 

46. What other division is there on the earth ? 

A. Oceanica, which comprises the islands of the Pacific 
Ocean. 



SOUTHERN OCEAN. 


47. What are the Eastern and Western continents sometimes 
Called ? 

A. The Eastern and Western Hemispheres. The word 
hemisphere signifies half a globe. 







16 


GEOGRAPHICAL DEFINITIONS. 


The map of the world, No. 1., in the Atlas, shows the Eastern an< 
Western Hemisphere. 

48. Into what division is the earth divided by the Equator ? 

A. Into the Northern and Southern Hemispheres. 

49. What does the Northern Hemisphere comprise ? 

A. All that part of the earth between the Equator and th 
North Pole. 

50. What does the Southern Hemisphere comprise ? 

A. All that part of the earth between the Equator and th 
South Pole. 

The map of the world, No. 2., in the Atlas, shows the Northern an 
Southern Hemispheres. 

51. What are the natural divisions of the land surface of the earth 

A. Continents, Peninsulas, Isthmuses, Islands, Capes, Prc 

montories, &c. 

52. Why are these called natural divisions ? 

A. Because they were made by God, when he created th 
world. 

53. What is a Continent ? 

A. It is a great extent of land, containing many countrie.* 
America is a continent. 

54. What is a Peninsula ? 

A. It is a portion of land, nearly surrounded by watei 
Africa and South America are peninsulas. 

55. What is an Isthmus ? 

A. It is a narrow neck of land, which joins two parts of 
continent, or a peninsula to a continent; as^the Isthmus o 
Darien, and the Isthmus of Suez. 

56. What are Islands ? 

A. They are portions of land, entirely surrounded by wa¬ 
ter, as the British Islands, or Newfoundland. 

57. What is a Cape ? 

A. It is a point of land extending into the sea, as the Cap 
of Good Hope, Cape Horn, &c. 

58. What is a Promontory ? 

A. It is a high point of land, extending into the sea, th 
extreme end of which is sometimes called a cape, som< 
times a point, and at others, a headland. 




Plains. RaDge of Mountains. Mountains. Valley. Hills. Volcano. City on Fire. 

62. What is a Volcano ? 

A. It is a burning mountain, with an opening at the top, 

called a crater. 

63. What rises from the crater of a Volcano ? 

9 


GEOGRAPHICAL DEFINITIONS. 17 


Some Capes and 
Promontories have 
light-houses built 
on them : these are 
so called because 
they have a bright 
light burning on the 
top of them after 
dark, that ships may 
not sail too near the 
land. 

59. What is a 

Mountain ? A Promont °ry and Light-House. 

A. It is a portion of land, raised up to a great height. 

60. How high are the highest mountains in the world ? 

A. They are about five and a half miles high; others are 
two, three, and four miles high. 

° # l 

61. What is a chain or range of Mountains? 

A. A number of mountains joined together, and extending 
many hundreds, and even thousands of miles in length. 





















18 GEOGRAPHICAL DEFINITIONS. 

A. Fire and smoke constantly rise from many Volcanoes. 

64. What is sometimes thrown out by Volcanoes ? 

A. Melted lava, large stones, ashes, and often floods of water. 

65. How many Volcanoes are there in the world ? 

A. More than 200 : of which upwards of one-half are in 
America. 

Cities and towns are sometimes set on fire by the burning lava which 
flows down the sides of volcanoes : others have been destroyed by floods 
of water; and some by vast showers of hot ashes. 



Ascent of Mont Blanci^* 


Some mountains are so steep and rugged, that it is difficult to ascend 
to the top of them. The picture represents a party of men going up 
Mont Blanc, the highest mountain in Europe. They were more than 
two days in getting to the top, and were almost frozen with cold. The 
summits of the highest mountains, even those in the hottest parts of the 
earth, are always covered with ice and snow. 

66. What is a hill ? 

A. It is a portion of land raised up, but not so steep as a 
mountain. 

67. What is a Valley ? 

A. It is a low portion of country between mountains or hills. 

68. What is a Plain ? 

A. It is a portion of country nearly flat or level. 

69. Are all plains alike in appearance ? * 

A. No; some are covered with grass, some with trees, 
and some only with sand. 



GEOGRAPHICAL DEFINITIONS. 19 

- 6 - 

70. What are plains covered with sand called ? 

A. They are denominated deserts ; some are also covered 
with stones and gravel. Deserts are generally destitute of 
water. 

71. Which are the largest deserts in the world ? 

A. The great African desert, and the desert of Cobi, in 
Asia. 

72. What does the African desert contain ? 

A. A few fertile spots scattered here and there over the sur¬ 
face, like islands in the ocean. 

73. What are these called ? 

A. They are called Oases : they are all inhabited, and serve 
as resting places for travellers. 



The Great Desert. 


The Great Desert is frequently crossed by parties of travellers, with 
camels; these are called caravans; both men and beasts often suffer 
greatly from want of water, and sometimes perish from thirst. The 
picture represents a small caravan crossing the desert, one of the people 
of which appears to have just expired. 

74. What are Caves or Caverns ? 

A. TheySre openings in the earth, often wonderful on 
account of their great size and extent. 

















20 GEOGRAPHICAL DEFINITIONS* 

One of the 
most remarkable 
is Fingal’s Cave, 
in Staffa, an isl¬ 
and on the west 
coast of Scotland. 
Its sides are for¬ 
med with the reg¬ 
ularity of walls 
of hewn stone. 
It is 370 feet in 
length, and 117 
feet wide, and 
presents a most 
Fingal’s Cave. striking example 

of the sublime and beautiful creations with which God has adorned the 
world. 

75. What are public roads ? 

A. Pathways used for travelling from place to place. 

76. Are roads useful to mankind ? 

A. They are highly useful, for without them the people in 
different parts of the same country would not know each other. 

77. What are rail roads ? 

A. They are an improved kind of road, now much used in 
the United States. 



Rail Road. 


The cars or carriages used on them, are drawn by steam locomotive 
engines, at the rate of 18 or 20 miles an hour, and sometimes even 
more. Vast numbers of people, and great quantities of merchandise, 
, are conveyed by them from place to place, in a manner much more 
convenient than by the old method of travelling. 
























GEOGRAPHICAL DEFINITIONS 


21 


-7-- 

PRODUCTIONS OF THE EARTH. 

78. What are the productions of the earth ? 

A. They are either vegetable, animal, or mineral. 

79. What are vegetable productions? 

A. They are all things that grow out of the ground, as 
trees, plants, grain, fruits and flowers. 

80. What are the vegetable productions most useful to mankind ? 

A. Wheat, corn, rye, rice, potatoes, bread-fruit, &c. 

81. What are the chief classes of the animal kingdom ? 

A. They are beasts, birds, fishes, reptiles, and insects. 

82. What are minerals ? 

A. They consist of substances of various kinds, that are 
dug out of the earth. 

83. What are the principal classes of minerals ? 

A. Four: the metallic, the inflammable, precious stones, 
and building stones. 

84. What are the most important metallic minerals ? 

A. They are gold, silver, iron, copper, and lead. 

85. What are the principal inflammable minerals? 

A. They are pitzcoal, peat, sulphur, bitumen, and as- 
phaltum. 

86. What are the most valuable precious stones ? 

A. Diamonds, sapphires, rubies, and emeralds. 



Diamond River. 

Diamonds are highly valuable, and are often found amongst the 
earth, at the bottoms of rivers. The engraving represents a river in 






22 


GEOGRAPHICAL DEFINITIONS, 


South America, from whicli the 
water has been nearly all pumped 
out by the machine on the right 
hand of the picture, and negro slaves 
are examining the earth for dia¬ 
monds. 

87. What are some of the prin- 
cipal building-stones ? 

A. They are granite, lime¬ 
stone, marble, chalk, slate, and 
sandstone. 

Mineral springs, both hot and 
cold, occur in many parts of the 
earth. The most remarkable are 
the Geysers, or Spouting springs of 
Iceland, which throw up volumes of 
hot water, with a noise like cannon, 
to the height of 90 or 100 feet. 

8 - 

ON THE FORM AND MOTIONS OF THE EARTH. 

88. What is the earth ? 

A. It is one of the planets. 

89. What are the planets ? 

A. Immense bodies like the earth, which revolve round the 
sun. 

90. What is the shape or form of the earth ? 

A. It is round, like a ball or apple. 

91. By what other names is the earth known ? 

A. It is also called the World, the Globe, and the Sphere. 

92. How many motions has the earth, and what are they ? 

A. It has two motions; the daily, and the yearly. 

93. What is the daily motion of the earth ? 

A. That in which it turns round every twenty-four hours. 

94. What is the yearly motion of the earth ? 

A. That in which it goes round the sun once every year. 

95. What is the effect of the earth’s yearly motion ? 

A. A change of seasons is produced by it. 

96. What is a change of seasons'/ 



Great Geyser. 






GEOGRAPHICAL DEFINITIONS. 25 

A. The change from winter to spring, from spring to sum¬ 
mer, from summer to autumn, and from autumn to winter 
again. 

97. What is the effect of the earth’s daily motion? 

A. It produces the change from day to night. 

98. If the earth did not turn round on its axis, what would be the 
condition of the people living on it ? 

A. Those living on one side of it would have constant day, 
and would be burnt up by the heat of the sun. 

99. What would be the condition of the people living on the other 
side of the earth ? 

A. They would have constant night, and would be frozen 
with cold. 

100. What do these things teach us ? 

A. That the works of the Almighty are directed by infinite 
wisdom and goodness. 

- 9 —- 

101. What is the axis of the earth? 

A. It is an imaginary line passing through its centre from 
North to South. 

102. What are the poles of the earth ? 

A. They are the two ends of the axis. 

103. How many poles are there ? 

A. Two; the North Pole, and the South Pole. 

104. Where are the poles situated ? 

A. The North Pole is the north point of the earth’s axis, 
and the South Pole is the south point. 

Point out on Map of the World, No. 1. of the Atlas, the North 
Pole and the South Pole. You will perceive that this map consists of 
the Eastern and Western Hemispheres, that is, a map of both sides of 
the earth presented to view at once; and although the words North Pole 
and South Pole are written twice, yet there is but one North Pole and 
one South Pole. 

105. How far distant are the poles situated from each other? 

A. One hundred and eighty degrees. 

106. How many miles is that ? 

A. About 12,500 miles, which is half round the world. 

107. What is the size or bulk of the earth ? 




24 


GEOGRAPHICAL DEFINITIONS, 


A. It is nearly 25,000 miles in circumference, and 8,000 
in diameter. 

108. What is meant by the circumference of the earth ? 
Circumference is the distance round the middle of its sur¬ 
face or outside. 

109. What is meant by diameter ? 

It is the distance across or through the middle part of it. 

110. If you were to run a thread round the outside of an apple, the 
length of' it would be the extent of the circumference; and if you were 

to cut the apple through the middle and measure it 
across the cut part, that would be the diameter. 

111. So great is the circumference of the earth, 
that if a man could travel without interruption from 
water, it would take him one thousand days, or 
three years, to come round to the place he started 
from, reckoning that he travelled twenty-five miles 
every day. 

- 10 - 



112. What are the circles of the earth? 

They are the equator, the tropics, the polar circles, and the 
parallels and meridians. 

113. Are these circles alike in extent? 

The equator and meridians only are of the same extent, 
and are called the great circles. 

114. What are the other circles? 

The Tropical and Polar circles, and the Parallels. These 
being smaller in extent than the former, are called small 
circles. 

115. What is the Equator? 

It is an imaginary great circle extending from east to west 
round the globe, and at an equal distance from each pole. 

On map of the World, No. 1., the Equator is the line that passes 
through the middle of both hemispheres. You will find the word equa¬ 
tor near it. ^ 

116. What is the distance of the Equator from the Poles? 

It is 90 degrees, or about 6250 miles from the North Pole, 
and the same from the South Pole. 





GEOGRAPHICAL DEFINITIONS. 25 

117. What are the Tropics ? 

They are two smaller circles run¬ 
ning like the Equator from East to 
West. 

118. Where are they placed? 

At the distance of 23^ degrees, or 

1637 miles, north and south from the 
Equator. 

119. What are the names of the Tropics ? 

The northern tropic is called the Tropic of Cancer, and the 

southern is called the Tropic of Capricorn. 

Point out on map of the World, No. 1., the Tropics of Cancer arid 
Capricorn. You will find them between the figures 20 and 30 that are 
printed on the edge of the map. 

- 11 - 

120. What are the Polar Circles ? 

They are two small circles running from east to west. 

121. Where are they placed ? 

At the distance of 23£ degrees from each Pole. 

122. What are their names ? 

The Arctic Circle is the northern polar circle, and the Ant¬ 
arctic Circle is the southern polar circle. 

Point out on map of the World, No. 1., the Arctic and Antarctic 
circles. They are between the figures 60 and 70 which are written on 
the edge of the map. 


Parallels. 

123. What are the Parallels ? 

They are circles running from east to west. 





Circles. 

















26 GEOGRAPHICAL DEFINITIONS. 

124. How are they represented on the Maps ? 

By lines crossing from side to side. 

125. What are the Meridians ? 

They are circles running from Pole to Pole through the 
Equator. 

126. How are they represented on the Maps ? 

By lines extending from the top to the bottom. 

Point out on map No. 1., the Parallels and Meridians. 

127. What are the degrees of a great circle? 

A. Every circle is supposed to be divided into 360 degrees, 
and every degree into 60 geographical miles or minutes. 

128. What is the length of a degree of a great circle ? 

A. It is 69^ common miles. 

129. How will you find the number of miles in any given number 
of degrees ? 

A. By multiplying the degrees by 69^. 

- 12- 

LATITUDE. 

130. What is latitude ? 

A. It is distance from the Equator either north or south. 

131. How is latitude divided ? 

A. Into north and south latitude. All countries situated 
north of the equator, are in north latitude; and those south 
of it, are in south latitude. 

132. How is latitude represented on maps ? 

A. By lines drawn across the map from side to side. 
These are called parallels. 

133. How is latitude numbered ? 

A. The numbers are marked on the sides of the map, at 
the ends of the lines of latitude. 

134. How is latitude counted? 

A. In degrees from the Equator towards the poles, from 1 
to 90. 

135. How can you distinguish between north and south latitude ? 

A. If the numbers increase from the bottom towards the 




GEOGRAPHICAL DEFINITIONS. 27 

top of the map, it is North Latitude; but if they increase 
from the top towards the bottom, it is South Latitude. 

136. On Map of the World, No. 1, Eastern Hemisphere. In what 
latitude is Europe ? Ans. N. Le. 

137. In what latitude is Australia ? Ans. S. Le. 

138. In what latitude is Africa ? Ans. N. and S. Le. 

139. In what latitude is Asia ? Ans. N. Le. 

140. On the Western Hemisphere. In what latitude is North 
America ? Ans. N. Le. 

141. In what latitude is South America? Ans.N.Le. and S. Le. 
South latitude. 

142. What latitude have places on the Equator ? 

A. They have no latitude, for it is on the Equator where 
latitude begins. 

143. What is the latitude at the Poles? 

A. It is 90 degrees, which is the full extent to which lati¬ 
tude is carried. 

144. What is the meaning of the word latitude ? 

A. It means breadth ; it was applied long ago to distances 
north and south, because it was supposed to be much less 
than longitude. 

145. Do the degrees of latitude vary in length ? 

A. No ; they are all alike in length, being 69£ miles each; 
the same as those on the Equator. 

-- 13 - 

LONGITUDE. 

146. What is longitude ? 

A. It is distance east or west from any established meridian. 

147. How is longitude represented ? 

A. By lines running from the top to the bottom of the map. 

148. How is it reckoned ? 

A. In degrees east and west on our maps ; it is reckoned 
from the meridians of Greenwich and Washington. 

149. How is it counted ? 

A. It is counted from the place of beginning, 180 degrees 




28 


GEOGRAPHICAL DEFINITIONS. 


each way ; therefore the longitude of a place cannot be more 
than 180 degrees east or west. 

150. How is it marked ? 

A. It is generally marked in numbers on the top and bot¬ 
tom of the map, at the end of the meridians. 

On map of the world, No. 1, the longitude is marked on the Equator, 
in consequence of a want of room at the ends of the lines ; but on maps 
Nos. 3, 4, 5, 6, &lc. it is marked at the top and bottom of the maps. 

151. How can you distinguish between east and west longitude ? 

A. If the numbers increase towards the right hand, it is 

east longitude; but if they increase towards the left hand, it 
is west longitude. 

152. Are the degrees of longitude, like those of latitude, all of the 
same length ? 

A. They are of the same length as those of latitude at the 
Equator only. 

153. How do they differ from those of latitude ? 

A. They constantly decrease as we go either north or 
south from the equator towards the poles, where the meridians 
all meet, and the longitude ceases. 

- 14 - 

154. What is the meaning of the word longitude ? 

A. It signifies length. It was used for this purpose because 
formerly the earth was supposed to be much longer from East 
to West than from North to South. 

155. On some of the maps the longitude is marked on the top from 
Greenwich, and on the bottom from Washington, the difference being 
77 degrees. The same lines serve to express the longitude of both 
places, and are numbered accordingly. 

156. How do nations generally reckon longitude ? 

A. From the capital of their own country. 

157. We reckon ours from the city of Washington ; the English from 
Greenwich ; the French from Parisand the Spaniards from Madrid. 

158 t On the Equator a degree of longitude is 69^ miles in length ; at 
24 degrees of latitude it is only three-fourths of that extent; at 60 degrees 
it is one half; at 75 degrees one quarter ; and at the poles it is nothing. 

159. Places on the Equator have no latitude, and those on the first me¬ 
ridian no longitude; therefore, at the point where the first meridian 
crosses the Equator, there is neither latitude nor longitude. 




GEOGRAPHICAL DEFINITIONS. 29 

160. What is the difference of longitude between Washington and 
Greenwich ? 

161. What is the length of a degree of longitude on the Equator. 

162. What is it on the 42d degree of latitude ? on the 60th degree ? 
on the 75th degree ? and at the Poles ? 

163. Where is there no latitude ? 

164. Where is there no longitude ? 

On maps Nos. 1 and 14, you will find that the meridian marked 0, 
crosses the Equator in the Gulf of Guinea. In that spot, there is 
neither latitude nor longitude. 


15 


MAPS. 

165. What is a map ? 

A. It is a picture of a part or the whole of the earth’s 
surface. 


166. What is a number of maps made into a book, called ? 

A. They are called an Atlas. 

167. In what way are maps usually drawn ? 

A. The top of the map is north, the bottom south, the right 
hand is east, and the left hand west. 

168. What is meant by North, South, East, and West? 

A. They are the four cardinal or principal points of the 
compass. 

169. What is a compass? 

A. An instrument used by naviga¬ 
tors at sea, to point out their course. 

170. How does it point out their course ? 

A. The needle, or bar of the com¬ 
pass, always points to the north. 

171. In what direction are North and 
South r 

A. The north is towards the North Pole, and the south is 
towards the South Pole. 

172. In what direction do East and West lie ? 

A. East is towards that point where the sun rises, and 
West where he sets. 

173. If you stand with your face towards where the sun rises, the 





30 


GEOGRAPHICAL DEFINITIONS. 


North will be on your lefl hand, the. South on your right hand, and the 
West will be behind you. 


SO 

/fp ia/s nit nn _JQp 0 

/ /SMj/ /o-ia.ir’. iioan clr.ry 

/ /JUS / b 3^14 / < 

7 9\$ 

sli \ \ jgr 

IMS! \ ^ 




Jake jnji 

\ A \ 40 


j» \ 'foeswl •V^ v S 

ill 'm Jrtflfy .1 .... 

Ter 

EAST 

30 




25 

. 1 

1: 

•toy 



V SO IT Tit X$w/ "1 \J 

”” 4b ~ sis 3fo 2 n a 

o "Tb no a a> *5\ 


A Map. 


—- 16 - 

174. On maps, rivers are shown by black lines winding according 
to their course. 

175. Mountains are shown by lines which form a shade in the direc¬ 
tion in which they extend. 

176. Cities and towns are shown by a black dot, and the capitals of 
countries by a large dot and eight smaller ones around it. 

177. The boundaries of countries are made by dotted lines. 

178. Sandy deserts and sand banks in the ocean, are shown by a 
great number of dots resembling sand. The ocean, or sea, is shaded 
by lines to separate it from the land. 

179. The latitude is shown by lines extending on the maps from side 
to side, and the longitude by lines running from the top to the bottom, 
except on map No. 2, of the world, where the latitude is shown by cir¬ 
cular lines, extending in succession farther and farther from the centre, 
and longitude by straight lines extending from the centre to the cir¬ 
cumference. 

180. Point out on map No. 3, of the Atlas, the Mississippi, the Mis¬ 
souri, the Rio del Norte, and the Columbia rivers. 

181. Point out the cities of Boston, New York, Philadelphia, Balti¬ 
more, New Orleans, Havanna, La Puebla, and Guanaxuato. 

182. Point out the capitals Quebec, Washington, Houston, Mexico, 
and St. Salvador. 
































GEOGRAPHICAL DEFINITIONS 


31 


183. Point out the boundary between the United States and Mexico, 
between the United States and British America, and between British 
America and Russian Amerioa. 


184. Point out the great American Desert, the great Sandy Desert 
in Mexico, and the Grand Bank of Newfoundland. 

185. Point out the Rocky Mountains, the Alleghany Mountains, the 
Snowy Mountains, and the Mexican Cordilleras. 



-17- 

ZONES. 

186. What are Zones ? 

A. Sections or divisions of the earth's 
surface, formed by the tropics and the 
polar circles. 

187. What does the word Zone mean? 

A. A belt or girdle, because it passes 
round the earth. 

188. How many Zones are there ? Zones. 

A. Five: one torrid, two temperate, and two frigid zones. 



TORRID ZONE. 


189. What part of the earth’s surface is occupied by the Torrid Zone ? 

A. The part which lies on both sides of the Equator and 

between the Tropic of Cancer and the Tropic of Capricorn. 

190. What is the meaning of the word Torrid ? 

A. It means very hot, parched, or dried up. 


















32 


GEOGRAPHICAL DEFINITIONS 


191. What is the breadth of the Torrid Zone ? 

A. It is 3243 miles in breadth from North to South. 

192. Why is the Torrid Zone the hottest part of the earth ? 

A. Because it is more exposed to the heat of the sun than 
any other part of the earth. 

193. What are the seasons of the Torrid Zone ? 

A. Two; the wet and the dry. 

194. To which of our seasons do they correspond ? 

A. The wet season corresponds to our winter, and the dry 
to our summer. 

195. What is the climate of the Torrid Zone ? 

A. During some parts of the year it is delightful,* but at 
other times the heat is very oppressive, and the earth is 
parched and dried up. 

- 18 - 

196. To what is the Torrid Zone subject? 

A. To the most violent storms of wind, which destroy 
almost every thing within their reach. 

197. To what else is the Torrid Zone subject ? 

A. It is more subject to earthquakes than the other parts 
of the earth, and is also the seat of dangerous and deadly 
diseases. 

198. For what is the Torrid Zone remarkable ? 

A. For the finest fruits, many of the most useful vegetable 
productions, and the largest and most ferocious animals. 

199. What are some of the principal fruits of the Torrid Zone? 

A. Oranges, lemons, pine-apples, cocoa-nuts, the bread¬ 
fruit, &c. 

200. What are some of the most useful vegetable productions ? 

A. Coffee, tea, sugar, indigo, cinnamon, cloves, nutmegs, 
pepper, &c. 

201. Which are the most remarkable animals? 

A. The elephant, rhinoceros, hippopotamus, camelopard, 
lion, tiger, &c. 

202. What are some of the other remarkable animals ? 

A. The ostrich and condor, with numerous birds of splendid 




GEOGRAPHICAL DEFINITIONS 


33 


plumage, and the largest and most venomous serpents and 
insects. 

203. What are the complexion and habits of the people of the Torrid 
Zone ? 

A. They are generally of a dark or black colour, and in¬ 
dolent and effeminate in their habits. 

204. What is their character ? 

A. They are but seldom distinguished for industry, enter¬ 
prise, or learning. 

-19- 



TEMPERATE ZONES. 


205. Where are the Temperate Zones situated ? 

A. Between the tropics and the polar circles. 

206. How are they distinguished from each other ? 

A. The one north of the equator is called the north tem¬ 
perate, and the one south of the equator the south temperate 
Zone. 

207. What docs the word temperate mean ? 

A. It means mild, moderate ; neither too hot nor too cold. 

208. Where is the north temperate Zone situated ? 

A. Between the tropic of Cancer and the arctic circle. 

209. Where is the south temperate Zone situated ? 

A. Between the tropic of Capricorn and the arctic circle. 
















34 


GEOGRAPHICAL DEFINITIONS. 


210. What is the breadth of the temperate Zones ? 

A. They occupy a breadth of about 2970 miles each. 

211. What are the seasons of the temperate Zones? 

A. They are four; Spring, Summer, Autumn or Fall, and 
Winter. 

212. What do the temperate Zones enjoy ? 

A. They enjoy a more equal and healthy climate than any 
other parts of the earth. 

213. Do the temperate Zones equal the torrid Zone in the number 
of tlieir vegetable productions ? 

A. The vegetable productions of the temperate Zones are 
neither so numerous nor luxuriant as those of the torrid Zone. 

214. What are the principal vegetable productions of the temperate 
zones ? 

A. Corn, wheat, and rice, with apples, peaches, pears, 
olives, figs, &c. 

215. Are the animals of the temperate Zones like those of the torrid 
Zone ? 

A. No: they are generally of smaller size, and are less 
numerous and ferocious. 

216. Of what kind are the animals of the temperate Zones mostly ? 

A. They are mostly of the domestic and useful animals. 

217. What are some of the domestic animals ? 

A. The horse, camel, ox, ass, mule, sheep, hog, and dog. 

218. What are some of the wild animals? 

A. They are the bear, wolf, buffalo, elk, deer, fox, &c. 

219. What are the colour and character of the inhabitants of the i 
temperate Zones ? 

A. Those of the north temperate Zone in particular have 
white or fair complexions, and generally more strength of 
body and mind than the inhabitants of the other Zones. 

220. For what are they distinguished ? 

A. For industry, enterprise, and learning. 

221. What do they comprise? 

A. The most civilized and improved portion of mankind. 

222. What Zone lies south of this country ? 

223. What Zone separates the north temperate and south temperate 
Zones from each other ? 

224. In what Zone do we live ? 



GEOGRAPHICAL DEFINITIONS 


35 


20 



FKIGID ZONES. 


225. Where are the frigid Zones situated ? 

A. Between the polar circles and the poles. 

226. How are they distinguished ? 

A. The one north of the equator is called the north frigid 
Zone, and that south of the equator the south frigid Zone. 

227. Where is the north frigid Zone situated ? 

A. Between the arctic circle and the North Pole. 

228. Where is the south frigid Zone situated.? 

A. Between the antarctic circle and the South Pole. 

229. Why are the Zones about the poles called frigid ? 

A. Because the climate is excessively cold. 

The word frigid means cold. 

230. What is the cause of the coldness of the climate of these 
Zones ? 

A. The great distance from the Equator. 

231. What are the Frigid Zones covered with ? 

A. Chiefly with ice and snow. 

232. What are the seasons of the Frigid Zones ? 

A. The seasons are two; a long cold winter and a short 
summer, without spring or autumn. 

























38 GEOGRAPHICAL DEFINITIONS. 

233. What fruits are found in the Frigid Zones ? 

A. Only a few small berries which grow in those parts 
nearest to the temperate Zones. 

234. What kind of animals live there ? 

A. None but the most hardy, as the White Bear, Musk 
Ox, Reindeer, &c. 

235. What are the number, stature, and colour of the inhabitants? 
A. They are but few in number, of short stature, and have 

dark complexions. 

236. In what are they deficient ? 

A. In intelligence, being ignorant of reading, writing, and 
learning. 

- 21 - 


QUESTIONS ON THE DIFFERENT ZONES, 
( The first Map of the Atlas before the learner.') 


237. On map of the world, No. 1., Western Hemisphere, point out 
the countries that are in the Torrid Zone. 


A. They are part of Mo., the whole of Ga., Ca., Ga., 
Pu., Bl. 


238. Point out the Islands in the Torrid Zone, beginning at the left 
hand side of the map. 


A. They are Sh., Me., Ns., Fy., Fe., N.-Ca., Sy., Gn., 
Ms., Gs., W.-Is., C. Ye. 

239. Point out the countries in the Torrid Zone, on the Map of the 
Eastern Hemisphere. 

A. They are part of the Gt.-Dt., the whole of Sa., Ga., 
L.-Ga., Sn., Ea., Zr., part of Aa., part of Hn., Sm., part 
of Ca. 

240. Point out the Islands in the Torrid Zone, in the Eastern Hemi¬ 
sphere, beginning at the left hand. 

A. They are S.-Ha., part of Mr., Ma., Cn., Sa., Ja., part 
of Fa., Hn., Pe., Le., Ce., Bo., Cs., Se., Tr. N.-Ga., N.-Id., 
N.-Bn., Le., part of Aa. 

241. Point out the countries in the North Temperate Zone, of the 
Western Hemisphere. 


A. They are a part of Aa., 


part of N.*Bn., Lr., part of 






GEOGRAPHICAL DEFINITIONS 


37 


242. Point out the islands. 

A. They are the An., Vs., Nd., As. 

243. Point out the countries in the North Temperate Zone of the 
Eastern Hemisphere. 

A. They are a part of Sa., Fe., Sn., By., part of the Gt.- 
Dt., Et., Aa.j Iy., Ty., Pa., part of Aa., Ty., part of Hn., Tt., 
part of Ca. 

244. Point out the islands. 

A. They are Id., Bh.-Is., Sn., Jo., Nn., Ku., Lo., part 
of Fa. 

245. Point out the countries in the South Temperate Zone of the 
Western Hemisphere. 

, A. They are Ci., Bs.-As., Pa. 

246. Point out the Islands. 

A. They are N.-Zd., Ce., Fd., Ta.-Fo., S.-Sd., S.-Oy., S.- 
Ld., part of Gs.-Ld. 

247. Point out the countries in the South Temperate Zone of the 
Eastern Hemisphere. 

A. They are Ce.-Cy., Ca. 

248. Point out the islands. 

A. They are Tn.-Aa., Mn., and Cs., Ks., part of Mr., part 
of Aa., Vn.-Ds.-Ld. 

249. The countries in the North Frigid Zone of the Western Hemi¬ 
sphere, are part of Aa., part of Nw.-Bn., part of Gd. 

250. The countries in the North Frigid Zone of the Eastern Hemi¬ 
sphere, are Ld., part of Aa., with the islands Sn., Na., Za., N.-Sa. 

251. The only land in the South Frigid Zone of the Western Hemi¬ 
sphere, is a part of Gs.-Ld.; and in the South Frigid Zone of the East¬ 
ern Hemisphere there is Es.-Ld. 

In what Zone does the United States lie ? N. Te. 

What Zone contains the largest animals ? Td. 

Which Zones contain the most useful animals ? Te. 

Which Zones produce the most hardy animals ? Fd. 

Which Zone is most subject to violent storms of wind ? Td. 

In which Zone are the people the most industrious ? N. Te 

Which Zone is the most subject to earthquakes ? Td. 

In which Zones is the climate most healthy ? Te. 

Which of the Temperate Zones contains the most powerful and civil¬ 
ized nations ? N.-Te. 


38 GEOGRAPHICAL DEFINITIONS. 

-- 22 - 

POLITICAL DIVISIONS. 

252. The inhabited parts of the earth have been from very early 
times divided into Empires, Kingdoms, Republics, and States, of 
various kinds. 

253. What is an Empire ? 

A. It is a state composed of several countries governed by 
an Emperor. 

254. How are Empires sometimes composed ? 

A. Of countries immediately joining each other, which 
form a compact body ; as the Empire of Austria. 

255. What do other Empires comprise ? 

A. Territories separated by vast oceans, and situated in 
distant parts of the earth, as the British Empire. 

256. What is a kingdom ? 

A. It is a country governed by a king, as France, Spain, &c. 



Palace at Versailles. 


257. What are Palaces ? 

A. Buildings inhabited by Emperors or Kings. They are 
generally of great extent, and cost vast sums of money. 

258. What is a Republic ? 

A. It is a country governed by a President, as the United 
States, Texas, &c. 

259. How are Empires, Kingdoms, Republics, &c., subdivided ? 

A. Into governments, as in Russia; departments, as in 
France; cantons, as in Switzerland ; provinces, as in Spain 
and Portugal; and states, as in the United States, Mexico, &c. 

260. What are the subdivisions of the various states which form 
our Republic ? 

A. Into counties, except in South Carolina, where they are 












GEOGRAPHICAL DEFINITIONS. 


39 


called districts, and in Louisiana, where they are called 
parishes. 

261. How are counties subdivided ? 

A. Into towns in New England, and into townships in the 
Middle and some of'the Western States. 



City of St. Petersburgh, 

262. What is a City ? 

A. It is a large collection of houses of various kinds, com¬ 
prising churches, hanks, libraries, manufactories, stores, and 
dwelling-houses. 

263. In what way is a city particularly distinguished from a town ? 
A. By being incorporated with peculiar privileges, and in 

being governed by a Mayor, Aldermen, &c. 

264. What is a town, and a village ? 

A. A town is a collection of houses smaller than a city, 
and a village is smaller than a town. 


- 23 - 

265. What is a township ? 

A. It is a tract of country generally divided into farms, 
and often containing towns, villages, and even cities, within 
its limits. 

266. What is a county ? 

A. It is a division belonging to a State, comprising in many 
cases a large extent of country. 

267. What does a county contain ? 

A. Nearly every county in the United States contains a 
county town, or Court-house. 








40 


GEOGRAPHICAL DEFINITIONS. 


268. What is done there ? 

A. Courts of justice are held there, and those who break 
the laws are tried and punished. 

269. What is the capital of a State ? 

A. It is the city or town chosen for'the meeting of the 
State Legislature. 

270. What do the capitals of States usually contain ? 

A. The State House, State Prison, Governor’s residence, 
and other offices connected with the government of the State. 

271. In some states, the most important place in it is chosen for the 
capital, without any regard to its position, as Boston, in Massachusetts. 
In most instances, however, a central position is adopted. 

272. What is the State House ? 

A. The house where the Legislature of the state meets. 

273. What is the Legislature of a State ? 

A. A body composed of men who have power to make laws. 

274. Who is the Governor of a State ? 

A. He is the person who executes the laws of the State. 

275. What is the capital of the United States ? 

A. It is the city of Washington, the place adopted by the 
American people for the annual meeting of the national 
Congress. 

276. After whom was it named ? 

A. General Washington. 

277. What is the National Congress ? 

A. It is an assembly composed of the representatives 
elected by the people. 

278. For what length of time are the Representatives elected by the 
people. 

A. The members of the Senate are elected for six years, 
and those of the House of Representatives for two. 

-24- 

279. What two bodies does Congress comprise ? 

A. The Senate and the House of Representatives. 

280. What are the duties of Congress ? 

A. To make the laws by which the nation is governed. 




GEOGRAPHICAL DEFINITIONS. 41 

281. In what part of the city of Washington does Congress hold its 
meetings ? 

A. In the Capitol, which is one of the finest buildings in 
America. 



Capitol at Washington. 


282. Who executes the laws passed by Congress ? 

A. The President, with the aid of the other officers of 
government. 

283. Who is the President of the United States ? 

A. He is the chief magistrate, or head of the government. 

284. By whom is he chosen to that office ? 

A. By the people of the United States. 

285. During what period does he hold his office ? 

A. He holds his office during the term of four years. 

286. What forms the American nation ? 

A. The whole of the people of the United States. 

287. The word nation signifies a distinct body of people living 
under one government. 

288. What is a Country ? 

A. A large tract of land, a region, one’s native soil. 

289. What are the boundaries of a country ? 

A. Those parts of land and water which lie next to the 
line which separates it from another country. 

290. What is the interior of a country ? 

A. It is the central or inland parts. 


































42 


GEOGRAPHICAL DEFINITIONS 


291. What is the frontier of a country ? 

A. Those parts which lie near the border or boundary, the 
outside portions. 

292. Thus we say, the Northern frontier, the Southern frontier, &c. t 
according as the parts are situated to the North, South, East, or West. 

293. What are the maritime parts of a country ? 

A. Those parts which border on the sea coast. 



Asiatic. Malay. European. African. American. 


-25- 

RACES OF MEN. 

294. Man is the most perfect of the works of God, being created in 
his own image, and formed by his wisdom, to subdue and exercise 
dominion over all the earth. 

295. From whom has the whole human race descended ? 

A. From our first parents, Adam and Eve. 

296. What does the human race present ? 

A. Several varieties, differing greatly from each other in 
colour, form, and features. 

297. What is the cause of the varieties in the human race ? 

A. It is probably owing to a difference in climate, food, and 
mode of life, and no doubt partly to causes which we do not 
understand. 

298. What are the various races of mankind 1 














GEOGRAPHICAL DEFINITIONS. 43 

A. They are five, the European or Caucasian, Asiatic or 
Mongolian, American, Malay, and African, or negro. 

299. How may they be classed in regard to their colour ? 

A. Into the White, Yellow, Red, Brown, and Black races. 

300. What nations does the European or White race include ? 

A. The nations of Europe, Western Asia, the North of 
Africa, with all the white inhabitants of America and other 
regions. 

301. What nations does the Asiatic or Yellow race include ? 

A. All the nations of Asia east of the Ganges river, (ex¬ 
cepting the Malays of Malacca.) 

302. What other nations belong to this race ? 

A. The Finns and Laplanders of Europe, and the Esqui¬ 
maux of America, also belong to the Asiatic race. 

303. What part of the earth does the American or copper-coloured 
race inhabit? 

A. The whole of the American continent, except those 
parts occupied by the descendants of Europeans, with the 
Esquimaux and Negroes. 

304. What nations does the Malay or Brown race include ? 

A. The people of Malacca and Malaysia, with those of 
Polynesia and New Zealand. 

305. What part of the earth does the African or Black race inhabit ? 

A. All Western, Central, and Southern Africa, with a 

considerable part of Madagascar and Australasia. 

306. A large number of this race are found in both North and 
South America, where they* are chiefly in a state of slavery. 

307. The European or Caucasian is the most noble of the five races 
of men. It excels all others in learning and the arts, and includes the 
most powerful nations of ancient and modem times. The most valua¬ 
ble institutions of society, and the most important and useful inventions, 
have originated with the people of this race. 

Which is the most noble of the five races of men ? 

In what does it excel all others ? 

What does it include ? 

What has originated with the people of this race ? 

To which of the races of men do the greater part of the people of the 
United States belong ? 

To which race do you belong ? 


44 


GEOGRAPHICAL DEFINITIONS 


26 


STAGES OF SOCIETY. 

308. Nations live in various stages of society, and their condition is 
found to depend materially on the progress they have made in know¬ 
ledge, learning and refinement, and in their skill in the mechanic arts. 

309. How may nations be divided according to their habits of life 
and state of improvement? ■> 

A. Into five classes, viz : savage, barbarous, half-civilized, 
civilized, and enlightened. 

310. How do men live in the savage state ? 

A. By hunting, fishing, and on the spontaneous produc¬ 
tions of the ground. They are generally clad in the skins of 
wild animals, and reside in miserable huts, or dens, and caves 
in the earth. 

311. What is the general character of savage nations ? 

A. They are bloodthirsty and revengeful, often eat the 
flesh of the enemies they take in war, and treat their women 
as slaves. 

312. What de- 
gree of knowl¬ 
edge do they pos¬ 
sess ? 

They pos¬ 
sess little or no 
knowledge of 
agriculture, or 
the mechanic 
arts, and are 

ignorant of reading, writing, and a regular form of govern¬ 
ment. 

313. What nations are examples of this class ? 

A. The nations of Australia, or New Holland, and New 
Guinea, most of the Indian tribes of North and South 
America, and the Kamtschatdales or people of Kamtschatka. 

314. In what manner do barbarous nations live ? 

A. By agriculture and the pasturage of cattle, sheep, &c. 

315. They understand a few of the most simple arts, and are ac¬ 
quainted with reading and writing only to a very limited extent. 



Habitations of the Kamtschatdales. 




GEOGRAPHICAL DEFINITIONS. 


45 


316. What nations are examples of this class ? 

A. The roving tribes of Tartary, Arabia, Central Africa, 
and the people of Abyssinia. 


-27- 

317. How are the half-civilizcd nations distinguished? 

A. They understand agriculture and many of the arts 
tolerably well, have written languages, with some knowledge 
of learning and books. 

318. They have also established laws and religion, some little foreign 
commerce, but are very jealous of strangers, and treat their women 
generally as slaves. 

319. What nations may be considered as belonging to the half- 
civilized class ? 

A. China, Japan, Burmah, Siam, Turkey, Persia, &c. 

320. How are civilized nations distinguished ? 

A. The arts and sciences are well understood, and the 
inhabitants derive their subsistence principally from agricul¬ 
ture, manufactures, and commerce. 

321. What is the condition of the great body of the people in some 
civilized states ? 

A. They are very ignorant and superstitious, and there is 
likewise a vast difference between the condition of the upper 
and lower classes of society. 

322. What countries rank among the civilized nations ? 

A. Russia, Spain, Portugal, Italy, Greece, &c. 

323. What is the character of enlightened nations ? 

A. They are noted for the intelligence, enterprise, and 
industry of their inhabitants ; among them also the arts and 
sciences are carried to a high state of perfection. 

324. How are they otherwise noted ? 

A. Females are treated with politeness afid respect, the 
principles of free government are well understood, and edu¬ 
cation and learning are more general than among other nations. 

325. What nations belong to this class ? 

A. The United States, Great Britain, France, Switzerland, 
and some of the German States. 




46 


GEOGRAPHICAL DEFINITIONS 



Waterloo Bridge. 


326. Enlightened and civilized nations are distinguished by the 
number and variety of their public buildings, and works of national 
utility ; of these, colleges, hospitals, libraries, bridges, canals, rail-roads, 
&c., are amongst the most prominent. 

—- 28 - 

GOVERNMENT. 

327. In every part of the earth it has been found necessary to have 
some system of government, or some power or authority, that shall 
protect the good and punish the wicked. 

328. Without government, no one could be secure either in his per¬ 
son or property, and the world would be a scene of confusion and 
bloodshed. 

329. What is government ? 

A. It is the power or system by which the laws of a 
country are made and executed. 

330. What is the object of government ? 

A. To afford protection to life and property, and ensure 
the happiness of the people. 

331. What are the different kinds of government? 

A. Three; Monarchy, Aristocracy, and Democracy. 

332. What is Monarchy ? 

A. It is that form of government in which an Emperor or 
King rules during his life. Emperors, Kings, &c. are also 
called Sovereigns. 

333. What are the forms of Monarchy ? 

A. Two ; absolute and limited Monarchy. 

334. What is an absolute Monarchy ? 

A. Where the monarch governs according to his own will. 

















geographical definitions. 


47 



335. What countries are 
ruled in this manner ? 

A. China, Turkey, 

Persia, and generally 
all the states of Asia 
and Africa. 

336. Some countries are 
ruled by tyrants, who use 
their people with great cru¬ 
elty, and in consequence 
are afraid to go abroad 
without being surrounded 
by soldiers. 

337. The picture repre¬ 

sents the Emperor of Mo¬ 
rocco, who is one of the 
most despotic sovereigns 
in existence. When he 
appears in public, every „ 

one he meets must fall Emperor of Morocco. 

with their faces to the earth, and there remain until the despot has 
passed. 


338. What is a limited monarchy ? 

A. Where the power of the monarch is limited by a con¬ 
stitution. 


339. What states are ruled by a limited monarchy ? 

A. Great Britain, France, Sweden, &c. 


29 


340. What is an aristocracy ? 

A. A government where the power is vested in a few per¬ 
sons called nobles. 

This does not at present exist as a distinct form of government, but 
is frequently found combined with others. 

341. How is aristocracy frequently found combined ? 

A. With monarchy and democracy. 

342. This is the case in Great Britain and other limited monarchies. 
The king represents the monarchy, the nobles the aristocracy, and the 
representative body the democracy. 

343. What is a Democracy or Republic ? 

A. It is a free government, in which the people choose 
their own rulers for stated periods of time. 











48 


GEOGRAPHICAL DEFINITIONS. 


344. What states are Republics ? 

A. The United States, Texas, Mexico, and all the Spanish 
American States. 

345. What was the first kind of government? 

A. The Patriarchal, in which every father or patriarch 
rules his own family or servants. 

346. Does this kind of government still exist ? 

A. Yes; but it is found only amongst rude and barbarous 
tribes. 

347. What tribes are governed in this manner ? 

A. The Bedouins of Arabia and the Great Desert, the Lap¬ 
landers, and some others. 

318. How did Patriarchs become chiefs ? 

A. In process of time families increased in numbers, and 
patriarchs became chiefs and rulers. 

349. How dfd chiefs, &c. become monarchs ? 

A. Some chiefs being ambitious and powerful, conquered 
others, and became monarchs of empires, kingdoms, &c. 

350. What titles do rulers assume in different parts of the world ? 

A. In Asia, they are called Nabobs, Sultans, Shahs, Ra¬ 
jahs, Imams, Khans, &c. 

351. What are they called in Europe ? 

A. Emperors, Kings, Princes, Dukes, Electors, &c. 

352. What are they called in America ? 

A. In America the chief magistrate of the different repub¬ 
lics takes the name of President. 

-30- 

RELIGION. 

353. All races of men, even the most savage, appear to believe in 
the existence of some invisible being possessed of power superior to 
man. The various methods in which this faith is manifested, form so 
many different modes of religion, and exhibit one of the most striking 
diversities by which nations are distinguished from each other. 

354. What are the principal systems of Religion ? 

A. The Christian, Mahomedan, and Pagan or Heathen. 




GEOGRAPHICAL DEFINITIONS. 49 

355. Who are Christians ? 

A. All those who believe in Christ as the Saviour of man¬ 
kind. 



A Christian Church. 


356. Into what classes are they divided ? 

A. Three: Roman Catholic, Greek, and Protestant. 

357. Who are the Roman Catholics ? 

A. Those who acknowledge the Pope as head of the 
Christian Church. 

358. Who constitute the Greek Church ? 

A. Those who adopt most of the forms and ceremonies of 
the Roman Catholic Church, but deny the authority of the 
Pope. 

359. Who are Protestants ? 

A. Those who reject the authority of the Pope, and take 
the Bible as the only foundation of Christian faith and wor¬ 
ship. 

360. How are Protestants divided ? 

A. Into various sects, of which the chief are Episcopalians, 
Lutherans, Presbyterians, Baptists, Methodists, Friends, &c. 

361. Who are Mahomedans or Musselmans ? 

A. Those who believe in Mahomed, a religious impostor, 
who lived in Arabia about 600 years after Christ. 

4 


50 


GEOGRAPHICAL DEFINITIONS, 



A Mahomedan Mosque. 


-31- 

362. Who are Pagans or Heathens ? 

A. Those who believe in false Gods, and who worship 
idols, beasts, birds, serpents, &c. 

363. They comprise several classes, such as Bramins, Buddhists, 
worshippers of the Grand Lama, &c., and number more than one half 
the inhabitants of the earth. 



A Pagan Temple. 


364. Who are the Jews ? 

A. They are those who believe in the Old Testament, but 
reject the New, and expect a Saviour yet to come. 

365. The Christian nations are much superior in knowledge and 
power to all others, and through the increase of their colonies, the in¬ 
fluence of the press, and the exertions of the Missionaries, will no 
doubt, in the course of a few generations, spread their religion over the 
greater part of the earth. 




















GEOGRAPHICAL DEFINITIONS 


51 

366. The importance attached by mankind, in all quarters of the 
World, to the worship of the Deity, is most strikingly displayed by the 
numbers of costly and splendid edifices erected for religious purposes. 

What nations are superior in knowledge and power to all others? 

What will cause their religion to be spread over the greater part of 
the earth ? 

To what do mankind, in all quarters of the world, attach importance ? 

How is it most strikingly displayed ? 

367. These are called among Christians, churches, cathedrals, and 
chapels; amongst the Mahometans, they take the name of Mosques; 
and among the Pagan Hindoos, they are termed Pagodas. 

- 32- 

LANGUAGES. 

368. The diversities of language form one of the most striking 
points of distinction between the various nations of the earth, and their 
arrangement into a general system constitutes an important branch of 
geography. The languages of cultivated nations are both written and 
spoken; while those of savage and barbarous races are merely verbal, 
and are not reduced to writing. 

369. The number of original languages in the world, amounts to 
about 80, but including the various dialects or branches derived from 
them, they number upwards of 3000, of which more than 1200 are 
American, and about 550 European. In Asia and Oceanica, there are 
nearly 1000, and in Africa 276. 

How many original languages are there in the world ? 

How many branches or dialects are derived from them ? 

How many of these are American ? 

How many are European ? 

How many are there in Asia and Oceanica ? 

How many are there in Africa ? 

370. The Chinese language is spoken by the greatest number of 
people, but the English is the most widely spread, and will probably 
become more general than any other. It is now spoken in every 
quarter of the globe, and is distinguished for its simplicity, concise¬ 
ness, and strength. 

371. The number of books printed in the English language is prob- 
ably greater, and the influence of its literature is more extensive, 
than in the case of any other language. 

What language is spoken by the greatest number of people ? 

Which is the most widely spread ? Where is it spoken ? 

For what is it distinguished ? 

In what language is it probable that the greatest number of books 
is printed ? 




52 


GEOGRAPHICAL EXERCISES 


-- 33 - 

EXERCISES ON THE MAPS. 

MAP OF THE WORLD, NO. 1. BEFORE THE LEARNER. 

Of what Hemispheres does this Map consist ? En. and Wn. 

What does the Eastern Hemisphere comprise ? 

A. All that part of the earth lying east of longitude 20 
degrees west from Greenwich. 

Hemisphere signifies half a globe. 

What great divisions does the Eastern Hemisphere contain ? Ee., 
Aa., Aa. 

These divisions form the Eastern Continent, or Old World. 

What does the Western Continent comprise ? 

A. All that part of the earth lying west of longitude 20 
degrees west from Greenwich. 

What great divisions does the Western Hemisphere contain ? N- 
Aa., S.-Aa. 

These divisions form the Western Continent, or the New World. 
What is a Continent? Refer to No. 53, page 16. 

What great division lies partly in the Eastern and partly in the 
Western Hemisphere ? Oa. 

This division is composed entirely of islands. 

Which Hemisphere contains the most land ? En. 

Which Hemisphere contains the most water ? Wn. 

Which Hemisphere contains the largest islands ? En. 

Which is the largest island in the world ? Aa. 

Which are the two next largest? Bo., N.-Ga. 

Which is the largest division of the Eastern Hemisphere ? Aa. 
Which is the smallest division ? Ee. 

Which division of the Eastern Hemisphere extends farthest south? 
Aa. 

Which extends farthest to the north ? Aa. 

Which extends farthest south, Europe or Asia ? Aa. ‘ 

Which extends farthest west ? Aa. 

Which extends farthest east ? Aa. 

- —34 -- 

Which is the most southern land in the Eastern Hemisphere ? Es.-Ld. 
Which is the most southern in the Western Hemisphere ? Gs.-Ld. 
What is an Ocean ? 






GEOGRAPHICAL EXERCISES, 


53 


A. It is a vast body of salt water. 

What five Oceans are in the Eastern Hemisphere ? Nn., Sn., Pc., 
Ac., In. 

What four Oceans are in the Western Hemisphere ? Nn., Sn., Pc., 
Ac. 

There are only five Oceans on the earth, of which four extend into 
both Hemispheres. The Indian is the only Ocean that is wholly in one 
Hemisphere. 

Which is the largest Ocean ? Pc. 

Which is the second in extent? Ac. 

Which is the third in extent ? In. 

Which is the fourth in extent ? Sn. or Antarctic. 

Which is the fifth in extent ? Nn. or Arctic. 

Which is the largest division of the Western Hemisphere? N.- 
Aa. 

Which extends farthest East ? S.-A. 

Which extends farthest West? N.-A. 

Is North America in North or South Latitude ? N.-Le. 

Why is it in North Latitude ? 

Is South America mostly in North or in South Latitude ? S.-Le. 

Why is it mostly in South Latitude ? 

In what direction does South America lie from North America ? S. 

What regions lie South and South-east of South America ? S- 
Sd., S.-Oy., S.-Ld., G.-Ld. 


- 35- 

MAP OF THE WORLD, NO. 2. 

What Hemispheres does this Map comprise ? Nn. and Sn. 

Which Hemisphere contains the most land ? Nn. 

Which Hemisphere contains the most water ? Sn. 

What great divisions are wholly in the Northern Hemisphere ? Aa., 
Ee., N.-A. 

What great divisions are partly in the Northern Hemisphere ? Aa., 
S.-Aa., Oa. 

What does the Northern Hemisphere comprise ? 

A. All that part of the earth north of the Equator. 

What does the Southern Hemisphere comprise ? 

A. All that part of the earth south of the Equator. 




54 GEOGRAPHICAL EXERCISES. 

What great divisions are partly in the Southern Hemisphere ? Aa. 
S.-Aa., Oa. 

What four regions lie nearest the North Pole? N.-Sa., N.-Za., 
Sn., Gd. 

What lands lie nearest the South Pole ? Gs.-Ld., Es.-Ld. 

What navigator has sailed nearest the South Pole ? 

A. Captain Weddell, in 1823. 

What other navigator sailed nearly as far south ? 

A. The celebrated Captain Cook, in 1774. 

Captain Weddell sailed within 1100 miles of the South Pole. Some 
navigators have gone much nearer to the North Pole: Captain Parry 
went within 500 miles of it, but was stopped by the ice from approach¬ 
ing closer. He found the sea, even in the middle of summer, covered 
with ice, and no signs of either birds or beasts were to be seen. 

- 36 - 

MAP NO. 3 . —NORTH AMERICA. 

What Ocean bounds North America on the East ? Ac. 

What Ocean bounds it on the West ? Pc. 

What Ocean bounds it on the North ? Ac. 

An Ocean is a vast body of salt water. 

What Sea is north of British and Russian America ? Pr. 

What Sea between the West Indies and South America? Cn. 

Tell what a Sea is. Refer to Question 22, page 11. 

What great Gulf lies east of Mexico ? Mo. 

What Gulf between Mexico and California ? Ca. 

What Gulf west of Newfoundland ? S.-Le. 

What Gulf west of Prince William’s Land ? Ba. 

What great Bay separates Prince William’s Land from Greenland ? 
Bs. 

What great Bay is south-west of Prince William’s Land ? Hs. 
What Bay south of Hudson’s Bay ? Js. 

What Bay between Nova Scotia and New Brunswick ? Fy. 

What two Bays on the east coast of the United States ? De., Ce. 
What Bay east of Yucatan ? Hs. 

What Bay west of Yucatan ? Ce. 

What Bay east of Guatimala ? Ga. 

What Bay west of Alaska ? Bl. 

Describe a Bay. 24. 





GEOGRAPHICAL EXERCISES 


55 


What Strait between America and Asia ? Bs. 

What Strait west of Greenland ? Ds. 

What does it connect ? B.-By. and the A.-On. 

What three Straits north of Labrador ? Hs., Fs., Cd. 

What Strait separates Newfoundland from Labrador ? Be. 

What is a Strait ? 25. _ 

What two Sounds in Baffin’s Bay ? Ss., Ls. 

What Sound on the east coast of Greenland ? Ds. 

What two Sounds in Russian America ? Nn., P-Ws. 

What Sound between Queen Charlotte’s and Vancouver’s Island? 
Q. Cs. 

What Sound north of Cape Hatteras ? Ae. 

Describe a Sound. 26. 

What five Lakes are in the northern part of the United States ? Sr., 
Mn., Hn., Ee., Oo. 

What river do they all flow into ? S.-Le. 

What are the four principal Lakes in British America?' Wg., Aa., 
G.-Se., G.-Br. 

What two Lakes are in the northern part of Mexico ? Ts., Ba. 
What Lakes are in the western part of Mexico ? Te. 

What Lake is in the southern part of Guatimala ? Na. 

Tell what a Lake is. 29. 

- 37 - 

What River flows into the Polar Sea ? Ms. 

Which are the two chief Rivers that flow into Hudson’s Bay ? Nn., 
Cl. 

What River of the United States flows into the Pacific Ocean ? Ca. 
What River flows into the Gulf of California ? Co. 

Which two large Rivers flow into the Gulf of Mexico ? Mi., Ne. 
What River flows into the Gulf of St. Lawrence ? S.-Le. 

What River flows into the Gulf of Georgia ? Fs. 

What River flows into Ungava Bay ? Kh. 
t What River flows from Lake Chapala ? Ge. 

What River flows from Lake Nicaragua ? S.-Jn. 

Describe a River. 34. 

How are Rivers shown on Maps ? 174. 

What Peninsula is in the south part of Russian America ? Aa. 
What Peninsula north of Hudson’s Bay ? Me. 

What Peninsula in the southern part of British America ? N. Sa. 







56 


GEOGRAPHICAL EXERCISES 


What Peninsula in the southern part of the United States ? Fa. 
What Peninsula in the western part of Mexico ? Ca. 

What Peninsula in the eastern part of Mexico ? Yn. 

What is a Peninsula ? 54. 


What Island lies east of Greenland ? Id. 

What Island west of Greenland ? Do. 

What Island in Hudson Bay ? Sn. 

What four Islands in the Gulf of St. Lawrence ? Nd., Ai., C.-Bn, 
P.-Es. 

What Islands east of Savannah ? Bs. 

What Islands south-east from Florida ? Ba. 

What Islands between North and South America ? W.-Is. 

Which aro the four largest of the West India Islands? Ca., Hi., 
Ja., P.-Ro. 

These are calleo the Great Antilles. 

Which are the two chief Islands on the west coast of the United 
States? Vs., Q.-Cs. 

Tell what Islands are. 56. 


Which is the most western Cape of North America ? P.-Ws. 
Which is the most eastern Cape ? Re. 

Which is the most southern Cape ? Ga. 

Which is the most southern Cape of Greenland ? FI. 

What three Capes on the east coast of the United States? Cd., 
Hs., Cl. 

Which is the most southern Cape of the United States ? Se. 

The most southern Cape of California ? Ls. 

The most eastern Cape of Guatemala ? G.-Ds. 

What is a Cape ? 57. 

- 38 - 

What Mountains extend through the whole of North America ? Ry 
What are they called in Mexico ? M. Cs. 

What Mountains extend along the west coast of Mexico ? Sy. 

What Mountains extend through the eastern part of the United 
States ? Ay. 

What two Mountains are in the southern part of Russian America ? 
S.-Es., Fr. 

What two Mountains are in the western part of British America ? 
Bn., Hr. 

What is a Mountain? 59. 






GEOGRAPHICAL EXERCISES 


57 


What Highlands are in the northern part of Greenland ? A.-Hs. 
Mountains and Hills are often called Highlands. 

What two Peaks are in the western part of the United States ? Ls., Js. 
Mountains that are higher than those around them are sometimes 
called Peaks. 

What Peaks are in the northern part of Mexico ? Sh. 

What Volcano is in the southern part of Mexico ? PI. 

What two Volcanoes are in Guatimala? Wr., Ca. 

What is a Volcano ? 62. 

What Desert lies in the western part of the United States ? Am. 
What Desert lies in the northern part of Mexico ? G.-Sy. 

What is a Desert? 70. 

Which is the most western division of North America ? R.-Aa. 
This is called Russian America because it belongs to Russia. 

Which is the most eastern division of North America ? Gd. 

This is sometimes called Danish America because it belongs to Den¬ 
mark. 

Which is the largest division in the North ? B.-Aa. 

This is called British America because it belongs to Great Britain. 
Which is the largest division in the Centre ? U.-S. 

Which is the largest division in the South ? Mo. 

What division lies between the United States and Mexico ? Ts. 
Which division lies south of Mexico ? Ga. 

This division is likewise called Central America. 

What small division lies north of Guatimala ? Be. 

What great Archipelago lies east of Mexico and Guatimala ? W.-Is. 
What is an Archipelago ? 23. 

What is the capital of British America ? Qc. 

What is the capital of the United States ? Wn. 

What is the capital of Texas ? Hn. 

What is the capital of Mexico ? Mo. 

What is the capital of Guatimala ? S.-Sr. 

What part of North America is crossed by the Tropic of Cancer ? Mo. 
What parts are crossed by the Arctic Circle ? Gd., B.-Aa., R.-Aa. 

In what Zone is the middle part of North America ? N.-Te. 

In what Zone is the southern part ? Td. 

In what Zone is the northern part ? N.-Fd. 






58 GEOGRAPHICAL EXERCISES. 

What countries of North America are in the North Frigid Zone ? 
Gd., B.-Aa., R.-Aa. 

What countries are in the North Temperate Zone ? B.-Aa, U-S., 
Ts., Mo. 

What countries are in the Torrid Zone ? Mo., Ga., W.-Is. 

In what Zone is the largest part of North America ? N -Te. 

- 39 - 

MAP NO. 4. —UNITED STATES. 

What country bounds the United States on the North ? B.-Aa. 
What Ocean bounds it on the East ? Ac.-On. 

What Ocean bounds it on the West? Pc.-On. 

What Gulf bounds it on the South ? Mo. 

What Gulf separates Vancouver’s Island from Oregon Territory ? Ga. 
What Republics lie west of the United States ? Mo., Ts. 

What five great Lakes are in the northern part of the United States ? 
Sr., Hn, Mn., Ee., Oo. 

What is the name of the eastern part of Lake Huron ? Me. 

What Lake lies east of Lake Ontario ? Cn. 

What Lake lies north-west of Lake Superior ? Ws. 

What great river extends through the middle of the U. States ? Mi. 
Which are its three great western branches? Mi., As., Rd. 

Which is its principal eastern branch ? Oo. 

Into what Gulf does the Mississippi flow 7 Mo. 

What River with two names in the western part of the United 
States ? On. or Ca. 

What are its two principal branches ? Ls., Cs. 

What three Rivers flow into the Atlantic Ocean north of Cape Cod ? 
Pt., Kk., Mk. 

What three between Cape Cod and Cape Charles ? Ct., Hn., De. 
What three flow into Chesapeake Bay ? Sa., Pc., Js. 

What River flows into Albemarle Sound ? Re. 

What two flow into Pamlico Sound ? Tr., Ne. 

What seven Rivers flow into the Atlantic between Cape Lookout 
and Cape Cannaveral ? C.-Fr., G.-Pe., Se., Sh., Aa., S.-Ms., S.-Js. 

What three Rivers flow into the Gulf of Mexico east of the mouth 
of the Mississippi ? PI., Aa., Apalachicola. 

- 40 - 

There are eight Capes on the Atlantic coast of the United States. 







GEOGRAPHICAL EXERCISES 


59 


What are they ? Cd., Mr., Cs., Ily., Hs., Lt., Fr., Cl. 

What two Capes are on the west side of Florida ? Rs., Se. 

What Cage west of Apalachee Bay ? S.-Bs. 

What four Capes are on the Pacific coast of the United States ? Fv 
Fr., Od., Mo. y * 

What three Bays are between Cape Cod and Cape Hatteras ? N.- 
Y., De., Ce. 

What four Bays are on the west coast of Florida ? Cm., Ta., Vr., Ae. 

What three Bays between Cape St. Bias and the mouths o£ the Mis¬ 
sissippi River ? Pa., Me., Bk. 

What three Sounds are between Cape Lookout and Cape Cod? Po., 
Ae., L.-Id. 

What Sound on the west coast of Vancouver’s Island ? Na. 


What Island is there on the coast of Maine ? M.-Dt. 

What two Islands lie south of Massachusetts ? Nt., M.-Vd. 

What Island lies south of Rhode Island ? Bk. 

What Island lies south of Connecticut ? L.-Id. 

AVhat Islands lie south of Florida ? F.-Rs. and T.-Is. 

Reefs signify low sandy islands. 

What Island is separated from the Oregon Territory by the Gulf of 
Georgia ? Vs. 

What range of Mountains is in the western part of the United 
States ? Ry. 

What three ranges of Mountains are in the Eastern part of the 
United States ? Cd., Ay., B.-Re. 

These three ranges are called sometimes the Apalachian Mountains. 
In what State is the Black Mountain ? N.-Ca. 

This is the highest mountain in the eastern part of the United States. 
What Mountains are in Pennsylvania and New Jersey ? Be. 

What Mountains are in Vermont and New Hampshire ? Gn., We. 
The White Mountains are the highest in New England. 

What Mountains are in Arkansas and Missouri ? Ok. 

/ 

-41- 

How many States are there in the United States ? 26. 

How many Territories, including Florida ? 6. 

There is also a District, called the District of Columbia, which you 
will see on Map No. 7. It is 10 miles long and 10 miles wide, and 
contains Washington City, the capital of the United States. Thus the 
United States contain 33 separate divisions. 






GEOGRAPHICAL EXERCISES 


60 

There are 13 States lying along the Atlantic Ocean between Florida 
and New Brunswick. 

What are they? Me., N.-H., Ms., R.-I., Ct., N.-Y., N.-J., De., Md., 
Va., N.-C., S.-C., Ga. 

What State lies north of Long Island Sound ? Ct. 

To what State does Long Island belong ? N.-Y. 

What three States and Territory lie on the Gulf of Mexico ? La., 
Mi., Aa., Fa. 

What two States lie west of the Mississippi River ? As., Mi. 

What three Territories lie between the Mississippi and the Rocky 
Mountains ? Ia., Mi., In. 

What Territory lies between the Mississippi River and Lakes Supe¬ 
rior and Michigan ? Wn. 

What four States lie directly east of the Mississippi River? Mi., 
Te., Ky., IS. 

What State lies on both sides of the Mississippi ? La. 

What State is bounded by Lakes Huron,Michigan, and Superior? Mn. 

What three States are bounded by Lake Erie ? N.-Y., Pa., Oo. 

What State is bounded by Lake Ontario ? N.-Y. 

What two States does Lake Champlain separate ? N-Y, Vt. 

What two States are separated by the Connecticut River ? N.-H., Vt. 

What two States are separated by the Delaware River ? Pa., N.-J. 

What two States are separated by the Potomac River ? Va., Md. 

What two States are separated by the Savannah River ? S.-C., Ga. 

What two States are separated by the Chattahoochee River ? Ga., Aa. 

What five States are bounded by the Ohio River ? Ia., Is., Oo. Ky., Va. 

What two States are separated in part by the Cumberland Moun¬ 
tains ? Va., Ky. 

What two States are separated by the Alleghany Mountains ? N.- 
C., Te. 

-42- 


Which is the largest State ? Va. 

The smallest ? R.-I. 

What is the capital of the United States ? Wn. 

Which of the Eastern States have each two capitals ? Ct., R.-I. 

The six Eastern States are Maine, New Hampshire, Vermont, Mas¬ 
sachusetts, Rhode Island, and Connecticut. 

What is the capital of each ? Aa., Cd., Mr., Bn., Pe., Nt., Hd., N.-Hn. 

The four Middle States are New York, New Jersey, Pennsylvania, 
and Delaware. 

What is the capital of each ? Ay., Tn., Hg., Dr. 







GEOGRAPHICAL EXERCISES. 61 

The eight Southern States are Maryland, Virginia, North Carolina, 
South Carolina, Georgia, Alabama, Mississippi, and Louisiana. 

What is the capital of each ? As., Rd., Rh., Ca., Me., Ta., Jn., N.-Os. 

The eight Western States are Ohio, Kentucky, Tennessee, Michigan, 
Indiana, Illinois, Missouri, and Arkansas. 

What is the capital of each ? Cs., Ft., Ne., Dt., Is., Va., J.-Cy., L.-Rk. 

The organized Territories are Florida, Wisconsin, and Iowa. 

What is the capital of each ? Te., M.-Cy., Bn. 

Through what States does the 40th parallel of Latitude pass ? N- 
Jy., Pa., Va., Oo., Ia., Is. 

Through what Territory does it pass ? Ia. 

Through or near what Cities and Towns does it pass ? Pa., Lr., Bd., 
Wg., Ze., Cs., Bn., Qy. These places have all the same or very nearly 
the same latitude. 

What six places have nearly the same latitude as Washington City ? 
Wk., Ph., Mn, Vs., Va., S -Cs. 

By placing a ruler on the Map directly on the place named, keeping 
it parallel with the lines that cross the Map from east to west, the 
learner will see at once all those places that have the same latitude. 

What places have the same latitude as the City of New-York ? Nk., 
Br., Br., Pu., Lt., Pa., Bn. 

What places have the same latitude as Boston ? Wr., Dt., S.-Jh., Ga. 

Through what States does the meridian of Washington pass? N.- 
Y., Pa., Md., Va., N.-C. 

Through or near what Cities or Towns does it pass ? Ea., Ga. 

These places therefore have the same longitude as Washington City. 

What four places have about the same longitude as Boston ? Sm., 
Nt., Ph., Dr. 

- 43 - 

MAP NO. 10. —SOUTH AMERICA. 

What Ocean bounds South America on the East ? Ac. 

What on the West? Pc. 

What Sea bounds it on the North ? Cn. 

What are the principal Mountains of South America ? As. 

What is their length ? 

The highest peak, Mount Sorato, is nearly 5 miles high. It is the 
highest Mountain in America. 

What is the next highest Mountain ? Ii. 

On what side of South America are the Andes ? Wt. 

What Mountains are on the East ? Bn. 

How long are they ? 





62 


GEOGRAPHICAL EXERCISES 


What Mountains are in the west part of Brazil ? Gl. 
What Mountains are between Brazil and Guiana ? Ay. 

Which is the largest River in South America ? An. 
Which is its largest branch ? Ma. 

Which is the second River in length ? R.-Pa. 

Which is the third ? Oo. 

Which is the fourth ? S. Fo. 

Into what Ocean do these flow ? Ac. 

What River flows into the Caribbean Sea ? Ma. 


Which is the most northern Cape of South America ? Gs. 

Which is the most southern Cape ? Hn. 

Which is the most eastern ? S.-Re. 

Which is the most western ? Bo. 

What two Gulfs are on the Caribbean Sea ? Dn., Va. 

What two are on the west coast ? Gl., Ps. 

What are the principal Bays on the west coast ? Pa., Co. 

What are the principal Bays on the east coast ? A.-Ss., S.-Ms., S.-Ge. ; 


What Islands are in the Caribbean Sea ? B.-Ae., Ma. 

These are a part of the Little Antilles, which form the southern divi¬ 
sion of the West Indies. Margarita belongs to Venezuela, and is the 
only West Indian Island that is owned by a South American power. 

What five Islands north of South America ? Td., To., Ga., Bs., S.-Vt. 
These form a part of the Caribbee Islands. 

What Island lies between the Amazon and Para rivers ? Js. 

What Islands on the coast of Brazil south of the Equator ? Ia., As., 
S.-Sn., Ca., S.-Ca., Ti. 

What Islands east of Patagonia ? Fd. 

What Island south of Patagonia ? T.-Fo. 

What Island east of Terra del Fuego? S.-Ld. 

What Island east of Staten Land ? S.-Ga. 

What Islands south of Terra del Fuego? Cn. 

What Island south of Chili ? Ce. 

What three Archipelagoes south of Chiloe ? Cs., M.-Ds., Q.-As. 
What Island south of the Gulf of Penas? Wn. 

What Islands west of Chili ? J.-Fs., S.-Fx. 

What Island in the Gulf of Guayaquil? Po. 







63 


GEOGRAPHICAL EXERCISES. 

-44- 

What Lake lies in the north-west part of Venezuela ? Mo. 

What Lake forms part of the boundary between South Peru and 
Bolivia ? Ta. 

What two Lakes are in Bolivia ? Uy., Xs. 

What three Lakes are in Buenos Ayres ? Ve., Ps., Ia. 

What two Lakes are in the southern part of Brazil ? Ps., Mm. 
What Lake in North Peru forms the source of the Amazon River ? Rs. 


What are the extensive grassy plains in the east part of Brazil 
called ? The Sm. 

What are the elevated plains in the west part of Brazil called ? C.-Ps. 

Point out in Venezuela the word Llanos, and in Buenos Ayres the 
word Pampas. These are the names given to extensive plains in those 
parts of South America. They are, like the Sertam in Brazil, the Prai¬ 
ries in North America, and the Steppes of Asia, covered with grass, on 
which vast herds of cattle roam and feed. 


The three most northern divisions on the west side of South America 
are called the Colombian States. 

Which are they ? Va., N.-Ga., Er. 

The three next lying immediately south of these are called the Peru¬ 
vian States. 

What are their names ? N.-Pu., S.-Pu., Ba. 

Which is the largest division of South America ? Bl. 

Which is the smallest division ? Py. 

Which division belongs to the British, Dutch, and French ? Ga. 
Which is the most northern division of South America ? N.-Ga. 
Which is the most western division ? Er. 

Which is the most eastern division ? Bl. 

Which is the most southern division ? Pa. 

Which two divisions are separated by the Andes ? B.-As. and Ci. 

What is the Capital of New Grenada ? Ba. Of Venezuela ? Cs. 
Of Equador ? Qo. Of North Peru ? La. Of South Peru ? Co. 
Of Bolivia ? Ca. Of Brazil ? R.-Jo. Of Paraguay ? An. 

Of Uruguay ? Mo. Of Buenos Ayres ? B.-As. Of Chili ? So. 

What States does the Equator pass through ? Bl., Va., N.-Ga., Er. 
What is the Equator ? 115. 

What States does the Tropic of Capricorn pass through ? Bl., Py., 
B.-As., Ba. 











04 


GEOGRAPHICAL EXERCISES 


In what Zone is that part of South America that lies north of the 
Tropic of Capricorn ? Td. 

In what Zone is that part south of the Tropic of Capricorn ? S. Te. 
What portion of South America is in the Torrid Zone, the largest or 
smallest ? Lt. 

How do you know it is in the Torrid Zone ? 189. 


In what Latitude is the greatest part of South America ? S. Le. 
Why is it in South Latitude? 131. 

What is Latitude ? 130. 

In what Longitude is South America, reckoning from Greenwich ? 
W. Le. 

How do you know it is in West Longitude ? 151. 

What is Longitude ? 146. 

- 45 - 

MAP NO. 11. — EUROPE. 

What Ocean bounds Europe on the West ? Ac. 

What Ocean bounds it on the North ? Ac. 

What Sea bounds it on the South ? Mn. 

What Mountains bound it on the east ? Ul. 

There are eight Seas in Europe. What are they ? We., Be., Nh., 
Ih., Mn., Ma., Bk., Av. 

What Sea is on the north of Russia? We. 

What Sea between Russia and Sweden ? Be. 

What Sea between Scotland and Denmark ? Nh. 

What Sea between England and Ireland ? Ih. 

What Sea between Europe and Africa ? Mn. 

What Sea south of Turkey ? Ma. 

What two Seas south of Russia ? Bk., Av. 

What is the name of the Sea between Greece and Asia ? Ao. 

What is an Archipelago ? 23. 


% What large Islands lie west of Europe ? B.-Is. 

The Island containing England, Scotland, and Wales, is called Great 
Britain. 

What Island lies west of Great Britain ? Id. 

What four groups of Islands are west and north of the British Isles ? 
Hs., Oy., Sd., Fe. 

What large Island lies west of Norway ? Id. 






GEOGRAPHICAL EXERCISES. 65 

What Islands are in the Baltic Sea? Ad., Da., 01., Gd., Od., Rn., 
Zd., Fn. 

What Islands in the Mediterranean belong to Spain ? Be. 

What Islands belong to France ? Ca. To Great Britain ? Ma., In. 
To Egypt ? Ca., 

What Island south of Italy ? Sy. 

What Mountain do you observe on it ? Ea. 

What Island east of Greece ? Nt. 

What small Island between Tuscany and Corsica ? Ea. 

This island is remarkable for being the place to which Napoleon Bo¬ 
naparte was banished in 1814. 

What Island bears the same name as a kingdom in Italy ? Sa. 
What small Island between England and Ireland ? Mn. 

What Gulf between Sweden and Russia ? Ba. 

What two Gulfs in the Baltic Sea ? Fd., Ra. 

What Gulf south of France ? Ls. 

What Gulf south of the Kingdom of Sardinia ? Ga. 

What Gulf east of Italy ? Ve. 

What Gulf in the Black Sea ? Bs. 

What Bay north of Spain ? By. 

- 46 - 

What Channel between France and England ? Eh. 

What Channel between Wales and Ireland ? S.-Gs. 

What Channel between Ireland and Scotland ? Nh. 

What Channel between Denmark and Norway ? S.-Rk. 

What Channel between Denmark and Sweden ? Ct. 

What Channel between the Marmora and Black Seas ? Ce. 


What Strait between France and England ? Dr. 

What Strait between Europe and Africa ? Gr. 

What Strait between Corsica and Sardinia ? Bo. 

What Strait between the Mediterranean and the Sea of Marmora ? Ds. 
What Strait between the Black Sea and the Sea of Azov ? Ee. 
What Strait between Italy and Turkey ? Oo. 


What Mountains form the boundary between Europe and Asia ? VI. 
What Mountains divide Sweden and Norway ? Dd. 

What Mountains divide France and Spain ? Ps. 










66 


GEOGRAPHICAL EXERCISES 


What Mountains in France ? Cs., Ae. 

What Mountains in the north of Spain ? Cn. 

What Mountains in the south of Spain ? Sa-Ma., Sa.-Na. 

What Mountains in Switzerland ? As. these are the highest in Eu¬ 
rope. Mt. Blanc is the highest of the Alps, it is near three miles high. 
What Mountains extend through Italy? Ae. 

What Mountains in the east of Austria? Cn. 

What Mountains extend through Turkey ? Bn. 


Which is the most northern cape of Europe ? Nh. 
Which is the most southern ? Mn. 

Which is the most southern cape of Norway ? Ne. 
Which is the most southern cape of England? L.-Ed. 
Which is the most southern cape of Ireland ? Cr. 
Which is the most northern cape of Spain ? OI. 
Which is the most western cape of Spain ? Fe. 
Which is the most southern cape of Portugal ? S.-Vt. 
Which is the most southern cape of Greece ? Mn. 


What Rivers flow into the White Sea ? Oa., Da., Me. 

What Rivers flow into the Gulf of Bothnia ? Ua., Ta., Kx., La., Sa^ 
II., La., Dl. 

What Rivers flow into the Baltic Sea ? Da., Nn., Va., Or. 

What Rivers flow into the North Sea? Ee., Wr., Es., Re. 

What Rivers flow into the Atlantic Ocean ? Sn., Se., Le., Ge., Mo., 
Do., Ts., Ga., Gr. 

What Rivers flow into the Mediterranean Sea ? Eo., Re., Tr. 

What River flows into the Gulf of Venice ? P. 

What Rivers flow into the Black Sea ? De., Dr., Bg., Dr. 

What River flows into the Sea of Azov ? Dn. 

- 47 - 

What Peninsula lies west of the Baltic sea and the Gulf of Bothnia 1 
Sn. Ny. 

What Peninsula lies south of Norway ? Dk. 

What Peninsula lies south of France ? Sn. PI. 

What Peninsula lies west of the Gulf of Venice ? Iy. 

What Peninsula lies south of Turkey ? Ge. 

What Peninsula lies west of the Sea of Azov ? Ca. 











GEOGRAPHICAL EXERCISES 


67 


What grand division of the earth lies east of Europe ? Aa. 

What country lies east of the Ural Mountains ? Sa. 

What is the largest division in Europe ? Ra. 

What divisions lie west of the Baltic Sea and the Gulf of Bothnia ? 
Sn., Ny. 

What division lies south of the Baltic Sea ? Pa. 

What division lies west of the Black Sea ? Ty. 

What division lies west of tho Archipelago ? Ge. 

What division lies west of the Gulf of Venice ? Iy. 

What division lies north of the Gulf of Venice ? Aa. 

What division lies north of the Mediterranean Sea ? Fe. 

What divisions lie west of the Mediterranean Sea? Sn., PI. 

What divisions lie on the Black Sea ? Ty., Ra. 

What seven divisions lie on the North Sea ? Ny., Sd., Ed., Dk., Hr., 
Hd., Bm. 

What divisions lie on the Baltic Sea ? Sn., Dk., Ra., Pa. 

What divisions lie on the Atlantic Ocean ? Ny., Sd., Id., Fe., Sn., PI. 
What divisions lie on the Mediterranean Sea ? Sn., Fe., Iy., Ge. 


What is the Capital of Sweden ? Sm. — Of Russia ? S.-Pg. — Of 
Denmark? Cn. — Of Hanover? Hr. — Of England? Ln.—Of Hoi 
land ? He. — Of Belgium ? Bs. — Of Prussia ? Bn. — Of Saxony ? 
Dn. — Of Wirtemberg ? Sd. — Of Bavaria ? Mh. — Of Switzerland ? 
Be. — Of France? Ps. — Of Spain? Md. — Of Portugal? Ln.— 
Of Sardinia ? Tn. — Of Tuscany ? Fe. — Of the Popedom ? Re. — Of 
Naples? Ns.— Of Austria? Va. — Of Turkey? Ce. — Of Greece? 
As. 


In what Latitude is Europe ? N.-Le. — How do you know it is in 
North Latitude? In what Longitude is it mostly ? E.-Le.— How do 
you know it is in East Longitude? What parts of Europe are in West 
Longitude? PL, Sn., Fe., Ed., Sd., Id. — Which is the most Northern 
Country of Europe ? Ny. — Which is the most Southern ? Ge. — 
Which is the most Eastern ? Ra. — Which is the most Western ? Id. 

-48- 

MAP NO. 12. —ASIA. 

What great division bounds Asia on the West ? Ee. 

What great division bounds Asia on the North East? N.-Aa. 

What great division bounds it on the South West ? Aa. 

What Ocean bounds it on the North ? Ac. or Northern. 






68 


GEOGRAPHICAL EXERCISES 


What Ocean bounds it on the South ? In. 
What Ocean bounds it on the East ? Pc. 


What Sea divides Asia from Africa ? Rd. 

What Sea separates Hindoostan from Arabia ? An. 

What Sea lies west of Syria ? Mn. 

What two seas lie north of Turkey ? Ma., Bk. 

What Sea lies east of Nova Zembla ? Ka. 

What Sea lies east of Kamtschatka ? Ka. 

What Sea lies west of Kamtschatka ? Ok. 

What Sea lies west of the Kurile Islands? Jo. 

What Sea lies between Niphon and Corea? Jn. 

What Sea lies west of Corea? Yw. 

What Sea lies east of Cochin China? Ca. 

Asia contains three interior Seas: which are they ? Cn., Al., Dd. 


What Mountains separate Europe from Asia ? Ul. 

What Mountains bound Siberia on the South? L.-Ay., G.-Ay. 

What Mountains extend through Mongolia? Tn. 

What Mountains bound Thibet on the north ? Kn. 

What Mountains bound Hindoostan on the North-East ? Hh. 

Which is the highest of the Himmaleh mountains and its height ? Ce. 
What Mountains in the southern part of Hindoostan ? Gt. 

What Mountains are in Turkey ? Ts. 

What Mountains are in Persia ? Ez. 

What Mountains bound Independent Tartary on the South ? H.,-Ko. 
What Mountains are in China ? Pg., Mg. 

What Mountains separate Circassia from Georgia ? Cs. 


What three Gulfs are in the north part of Siberia ? Oe., Yi., La. 
What two Gulfs between Persia and Arabia ? Pn., Os. 

What two Gulfs on the west coast of Hindoostan ? Ch., Cy. 
What Gulf Separates Hindoostan from Ceylon ? Mr. 

What Gulf south of Birmah ? Mn. 

What Gulf between Siam and Cambodia ? Sm. 

What Gulf east of Anam ? Tn. 

What Gulf north of Kamtschatka ? Ar. 


Which is the most northern Cape of Asia ? C.-Vi. 
Which is the most southern Cape ? Ra. 






GEOGRAPHICAL EXERCISES 


G9 


Which is the most eastern Cape ? Et. 

Which are the most southern Capes of Hindoostan and Birmah ? Cn. 
and Ns. 

-49- 

What three great Rivers flow into the Northern Ocean ? Oe., Yi., La. 
What River flows into the Channel of Tartary ? Ar. 

What two large rivers flow through China ? Ho., Yg. 

What River separates Cochin China from Cambodia ? Ca. 

What River flows into the Gulf of Martaban ? Iy. 

What two Rivers flow into the Bay of Bengal ? Gs., Br. 

What River bounds Hindoostan on the west ? Is. 

What two Rivers unite and flow into the Persian Gulf? Es., Ts. 
What Rivers flow into the Caspian Sea ? Va., Ul. 

What two Rivers flow into the sea of Aral ? Ao., Sp. 

What River flows through Little Bucharia ? Cr. 

What Island west of Syria ? Cs. 

What Island south of Hindoostan ? Cn. 

What Islands in the Bay of Bengal ? An., Nr. 

What Island west of Malacca ? P.-Pg. 

What Island south of China ? Hn. 

What Islands east of China ? Fa., L.-Co. 

What Islands form the Empire of Japan ? Jo., Nn., Se., Ku. 

What Island east of Mantchooria ? Sn. 

What Islands south of Kamtschatka ? Ke. 

What range of Islands east of Kamtschatka ? An. 

What three Islands north of Siberia ? Ki., Lf., N.-Sa. 

What Strait separates Asia from North America ? Bs. 

What Strait between the islands of Jesso and Niphon ? My. 

What Strait between Corea and Japan ? Ca. 

What Strait between China and Formosa ? Fa. 

What Strait between Malacca and Sumatra ? Ma. 

What-Strait between Arabia and Abyssinia ? Bl. 

What two great divisions does this Strait separate ? Aa., Aa. 

What Peninsula lies between the Persian Gulf and the Red Sea ? Aa. 
What Peninsula south of Siam ? Ma. 

What Peninsula between the Yellow Sea and the Sea of Japan ? Ca. 
What Peninsula between the seas of Ochotsk and Kamtschatka ? Ka. 











GEOGRAPHICAL EXERCISES. 


70 


What Isthmus between the Red Sea and the Mediterranean Sea ? 
What two great divisions does it unite ? Aa., Aa. 

What Isthmus west of the Gulf of Siam ? Kw. 




Sz. 


- 50 - 

W T hat three Lakes are in the southern part of Siberia ? Ty., An., Bl. 
What two are in Soongaria ? Bh., Z.-Nr. 

The word Nor in Central or Middle Asia, appears to mean Lake. 
What Lake is in Little Bucharia ? L.-Nr. 

What three Lakes in China ? K.-Nr., Tg., Pg. 

What Lake in Afghanistan ? Zh. 

The Caspian, Aral, and Dead Seas, are in fact Lakes, but have been 
called Seas because their waters are salt. 


To what Empire do the Northern parts of Asia belong ? Rn. 

What Empire in the middle and eastern parts of Asia ? Ce. 

What great division in the south of Asia ? Ia. 

What country north of the Altay Mountains ? Sa. 

What great division south of the Altay Mountains ? C.-Ty. 

What great division east of the Caspian Sea ? I.-Ty. 

What country south of the Black Sea ? Ty. 

What country east of the Mediterranean Sea ? Sa. 

What country east of the Red Sea ? Aa. 

What country south of the Caspian Sea ? Pa. 

What countries east of Persia ? An., Bn. 

What country between the Arabian Sea and the Bay of Bengal ? Hn. 
What countries east of the Bay of Bengal ? Bh., Sm. 

What division east of the Cambodia River ? Am. 

What countries are included in Anam ? Ca., C.-Ca., Tn. part of Ls. 
What country north of Anam ? Ca. 

The Chinese Empire includes nine different countries; what are they ? 
Sa., Ma., Ma., L.-Ba., L.-Tt., Tt., Bn., Ca., Ca. 

Independent Tartary includes six different countries ; what are they ? 
Ks., Ta., Ka., Kn., G.-Ba., Kz. 

Afghanistan includes two different States; what are they ? Ht., Cl. 
What Empire lies east of the Chinese Empire ? Jn. 


What is the Capital of Siberia? Tk. — Of the Tartar States, 
Kokan, Khiva, and Great Bucharia ? Kn., Ka., Ba. — Of Persia ? Tn. 
— Of the Arabian States, Hedjaz, Yemen, Nedsjed, and Omon ? Ma., 
Sa., Da., Mt. — Of Herat ? Ht. — Of Cabul ? Cl. 








GEOGRAPHICAL EXERCISES 


71 


Of Lahore ? Le. — Of Hindoostan ? Ca. — Of Thibet ? La. — Of 

Birmah? Aa. — Of Siam? Bk. — Of Anam? He_Of China? 

Pn. — Of Corea ? Ko. — Of Japan ? Jo, 


What country in Asia does the Arctic Circle pass through ? Sa. 

What countries does the Tropic of Cancer pass through ? Aa., Hn., 
Bh., Ca. 

In what Zone is the northern part of Asia ? N. Fd. 

In what Zone is the central part of Asia ? N.-Te. 

In what Zone is the southern part of Asia ? Td. 

In what Latitude is Asia wholly? N.-Le. 

How do you know it is in North Latitude ? 135. 

In what Longitude is Asia from Greenwich ? E.-Lc. 

How do you know it is East Longitude ? 151. 

- 51 - 

MAP NO. 14. — AFRICA. 

What Sea bounds Africa on the North ? Mn. 

What Sea bounds it on the East ? Rd. 

What Ocean bounds it on the East ? In. 

What Ocean bounds it on the West? Ac. 


What Strait separates Morocco from Spain ? Gr. 

What Strait separates Abyssinia from Arabia ? BL 
What Gulf between Tripoli and Barca ? Sa. 

What Gulf between Berbora and Arabia ? An. 

What Gulf south of Upper Guinea ? Ga. 

What Bays on the southern part of the west coast? G.-Fh., Wh., 
S.-Cr., S.-Ha. 

What Bay on the east coast north of Caffraria ? Da. 

What Channel between Madagascar and Mozambique ? Me. 

Which is the most northern Cape of Africa ? Ba. 

Which is the most southern Cape ? Ls. 

Which is the most eastern Cape ? GL 
Which is the most western Cape ? Ve. 

What celebrated Cape near the southern extremity of Africa ? G.-He. 
What two Capes on the desert coast ? Br., Bo. 

What Cape at the southern extremity of Liberia ? Ps. 








72 


GEOGRAPHICAL EXERCISES 


What Cape at the northern extremity of Mozambique ? Do. 
What Cape at the northern extremity of Zanguebar ? Bs. 


Which is the principal River in Africa ? Nc. 

The Nile is remarkable for flowing 1600 miles without receiving the 
smallest tributary. 

Into what Sea does the Nile empty ? Mn. 

What are its three chief branches ? Ad., Ai., Te. 

What three Rivers empty into the Atlantic Ocean on the west coast 
of Africa ? SI., Ga., R.-Ge. 

What River in Liberia ? S.-Ps. 

What River empties into the Gulf of Guinea ? Nr. 

This is a very remarkable river; though heard of 20 centuries ago, 
its source and mouth were discovered only a few years since. 

What River between Angola and Benguela ? Ca. 

What River between Loango and Congo ? Co. 

What River south of Benguela ? Be. 

What River runs through the country of the Hottentots ? Oe. 

What River flows into Delagoa Bay ? Me. 

What River flows into the Mozambique Channel ? Ze. 

What Rivers run through Zanguebar ? Oe., We. 

What Rivers flow into Lake Tchad ? Yu., Sy. 

What two Lakes in Soudan ? Td., Fe. 

What Lake north of Bambarra ? De. 

What Lake in Abyssinia ? Da. 

What Lake in Barbary ? Lh. 

What Lake west of Zanguebar and Mozambique ? Mi. 


52 


What three groups of Islands in the Atlantic Ocean belong to Por¬ 
tugal ? Ae., Ma., C.-Ve. 

What group of Islands belongs to Spain ? Cy. 

What three Islands in the Gulf of Guinea belong to Portugal ? Ps., 
S.-Ts., An. 


Which is the most northern Island in the Gulf of Guinea ? F.-Po. 

What two Islands south of the Equator belong to Great Britain? 
An., S.-Ha. 

St. Helena is remarkable for being the place of imprisonment and 
burial of Napoleon Bonaparte. He died here in 1821, after a residence 
of six years. 







What great Archipelago in the Indian Ocean ? En. 








GEOGRAPHICAL EXERCISES. 73 

What arc its principal Islands and groups? Mr., Co., Se., Ae., Ma. 
Which are the Mascarenha Islands ? Bn., Ms. 

The latter is often called the Isle of France. 

What Islands belong to Great Britain ? Ms., Se., Ae. 

What Island belongs to France ? Bn. 

What Islands belong to Muscat ? Pa., Zr., Ma. 

What Islands between Madagascar and Mozambique ? Co. 

What Islands north-east of Cape Guardafui ? Sa., A.-Ca. 

To what power does Socotra belong ? Kn. 

What Mountains extend through Barbary ? As. 

What is the highest Peak of the Atlas Mountains ? Mn. How higli 
is it ? 

What Mountains between Soudan and Guinea ? Kg. 

What Mountains between Soudan and Ethiopia ? Mn. 

What Mountains in Congo ? Cl. 

What Mountains in Cape Colony ? Sw. 

What Mountain west of Mozambique ? La. 

These Mountains have been called by geographers the Back-Bone 
of the world, but their very existence is now considered doubtful. 

What Mountains in Madagascar ? Ra., Rd. 

What great division occupies the northern part of Africa ? By. 
What States does Barbary include ? Mo., As., Ts., Ti., B.-Jd. 

What great division lies south of Barbary ? G.-Dt. 

What great divisions lie south of the Great Desert ? Sn., Sa. 

What great divisions lie south of Soudan ? U.-Ga., L.-Ga. and Ea. 

What great division lies west of Soudan ? Sa. 

What great division on the west coast on both sides of the Equator ? 
L.-Ga. 

What great division on the east coast on both sides of the Equator ? Zr. 
What great division lies south of the Mountains of the Moon ? Ea. 
What colony occupies the southern extremity of Africa ? C.-Cy. 
What two races of men inhabit the country north of Cape Colony ? 
Hs., Bs. 

-53- 

What countries lie on the Red Sea ? Et., Na., Aa. 

In what country are the mouths of the river Nile situated ? Et. 
What is the district comprised between the outlets of the river Nile 
called ? Da. 






74 


GEOGRAPHICAL EXERCISES 


What is a Delta ? 

It is a term applied to those districts embraced by the outlets of rivers. 
The Nile, Niger, Ganges, Mississippi, and other great streams, have 
each their respective deltas. 


What Desert occupies a large portion of the north of Africa ? G.-Dt. 
What Desert between the river Nile and the Red Sea? Nn. 

What Desert is crossed by the Tropic of Capricorn? Ch. 

How long and wide is the Great Desert ? 

This is the largest Desert in the world; and though extremely hot, 
and in most places destitute of water, yet contains a number of fertile 
spots called Oases, all of which are inhabited. 

Which are the five principal Oases ? Fn., Tt., As., Bh., Ty. 

There are four other Oases : which are they ? Aa., Sh., E.-Dl., E.*Kh. 
What is the western part of the Great Desert called ? Sa. 


What is the Capital of Morocco ? Mo. — Of Algiers ? Al. — Of 
Tunis? Ts. — Of Tripoli? Ti. — Of Fezzan ? Fn.— Of Egypt? 
Co. — Of Nubia ? N.-Da. — Of Foota Jallon ? To. — Of Ashantee ? 
Ce. — Of Dahomey ? Ay. — Of Benin ? Bn. — Of Kaarta ? Ko. — 
Of Timbuctoo ? To. — Of Bambarra ? So. — Of Houssa ? So. — 
Of Yarriba ? Eo. — Of Bornou ? Bu. — Of Bergoo ? Wa. — Of Dar¬ 
fur ? Ce. — Of Kordofan? It.— Of Abyssinia ? Gr. — Of Congo? 
S.-Sr. — Of Angola ? S.-P.-Lo. — Of Benguela ? S.-F.-Ba. — Of Ca- 

zembe ? Ce. — Of Monomotapa ? Zo. — Of Mozambique ? Of Cape 
Colony? C. Tn. — Of Imerina? Tu. 


What parts of Africa are crossed by the Tropic of Cancer ? G. Dt., Et. 
What parts by the Equator ? L.-Ga., Ea., Zr. 

What parts by the Tropic of Capricorn ? Hs., D.-Ch., Bs., Me. 

In what Zone is Africa mostly ? Td. 

In what Zone is that part of it north of the Tropic of Cancer ? N. Te. 
In what Zone is that part of it south of the Tropic of Capricorn ? S. Te. 
Africa comprises about 37 degrees of North Latitude, and 35 degrees 
of South Latitude. In what Latitude then is it mostly situated ? N.-Le. 

Africa comprises more than 50 degrees of East Longitude, and about 
18 degrees of West Longitude. In what Longitude is it then mostly? 
E.-Le. 

- 54 - 

MAP NO. 16. —OCEANIC A. 

Which are the three grand divisions of Oceanica ? Ma., Aa., Pa. 







GEOGRAPHICAL EXERCISES 


75 


Which is the largest division of Oceanica ? Pa. 
Which is the smallest division of Oceanica ? Ma. 


What three considerable Islands does the Equator pass through in 
Malaysia ? Sa., Bo., Cs. 

What Island lies south-east of Sumatra ? Ja. 

What five Islands east of Java? By., Sa., Ja., Fs., Tr. 

What Islands east of Celebes ? Se. 

What Islands east of the China Sea ? Pe. 

Which are the two largest of the Philippine Islands ? Ln., Mo. 

What Strait separates Sumatra from Malacca ? Ma. 

What Strait separates Sumatra from Java ? Sa. 

American vessels generally pass through the Straits of Sunda on 
going to or returning from China. 

What Strait between Borneo and Celebes ? Mr. 

What Islands between Borneo and Mindanas ? So. 

What Mountain in Sumatra directly under the Equator ? Or. 

Which is the largest Island of Australasia ? Aa. 

What are its divisions ? N.-Hd. and N.-S.-Ws. 

What Colony on the south-east coast of Australia ? B.-By. 

What Colony on the west coast ? S.-Rr. 

What Island south of Australia ? V.-D.-Ld. 

What Strait separates Australia from Van Diemen’s Land ? Bs. 
What Strait separates Australia from Papua or New Guinea? Ts. 
What two Gulfs on opposite sides of Australia ? Ca., Ss. 

Which is the principal River in Australia ? My. 

Which are the principal Mountains in Australia ? Be., Bs. 

W’hich is its principal town ? Sy. 

What large Island north of Australia ? Pa. or N.-Ga. 

What Islands north-east of Australia ? S.-Ao., N.-Ga., N.-Id., N 

Bn., Le. 

What Islands east of Australia? N.-Hs., N.-Ca., Nk. 

What Sea between Australia and New Hebrides ? Cl. 

What Islands south-east of Australia ? N.-Zd. 

What Strait between the two largest Islands of New Zealand ? Cs. 
What Strait between the middle and southernmost Island of New 
Zealand? Fx. 

What Bays in the northern part of New Zealand ? Is., Py. 






76 


GEOGRAPHICAL EXERCISES 


Which Archipelago of Polynesia does the Equator pass through ? Cl. 

Which are the principal Archipelagoes and Islands of Polynesia north 
of the Equator ? Ms.-A., As.-A., Ce., Le., Sh., Aa. 

What Archipelago lies on the 140th meridian of Longitude west from 
Greenwich ? Ms. 

What groups of Islands does it contain? Wn., Ms. 

Which are the principal Islands east of the 160th meridian of Longi¬ 
tude west from Greenwich, and south of the Equator ? Sy., Gn., Cs., 
Al., Ps., Pu., Gr. P.-Ws., K.-Gs. 

Which are the principal Islands that lie west of the 160th meridian 
of Longitude west from Greenwich, and south of the Equator ? Ns., 
Fy., Fe., Hi., Fa., Ke. 

Which is the most northern Island of Polynesia ? Ms. 

Which are the most southern Isles of Polynesia ? Kc. 

Which is the most eastern Island of Polynesia ? Er. 

Which are the most western Islands of Polynesia ? S.-As. 


The most important group of Islands belonging to Polynesia is on 
the 20th parallel of ‘North Latitude. Which is it ? Sh. 

Which is the principal of the Sandwich Islands ? Hi. or Oe. 

What high Mountain is on the Island of Hawaii and its height ? 
M.-Rh. 

What distinguished personage was killed here in the year 1779 ? 
C. Ck. 


What Tropic crosses the northern part of Ocean ica ? Cr. 

What Tropic crosses the southern part ? Cn. 

What great Circle crosses the central or middle part ? Er. 

In what Zone is the northern part of Oceanica? N.-Te. 

In what Zone is the middle parts ? Td. 

In what Zone is the southern part ? S.-Te. 

Oceanica comprises 50 degrees of South Latitude, and 40 North Lati¬ 
tude. 

In what Latitude then is it mostly ? Sh. 

Oceanica comprises about 85 degrees of east and 72 of west Longi¬ 
tude from Greenwich. 

In what Longitude then is it mostly ? Et. 







DESCRIPTIVE GEOGRAPHY 


77 



PART SECOND. 


DESCRIPTIVE GEOGRAPHY. 


Figure and Population of the Earth. 

- 50 - 

1. The Earth is a vast globe or spherical body similar to a 
solid ball. Its entire surface is about 200 millions of square 
miles, of which one-fourth or 50 millions of square miles is 
land, and the remaining three-fourths are covered with water. 

2. Ignorant people suppose the earth to be a flat body, bounded on 
all sides by the sea and sky. More attentive observers were, however, 
long ago persuaded that it is a globe or sphere, similar in form to a 
ball or apple. 

3. Various circumstances render it evident that the earth 
must be a body round in every direction; of which one of the 

1. What is the earth ? What is its entire surface? How much is 
land ? How much is water ? 2. What do ignorant people suppose the 
earth to be ? Of what were more attentive observers persuaded ? 
3. What is one of the most striking proofs that the earth is round in 












DESCRIPTIVE GEOGRAPHY* 


78 

most striking proofs is that furnished by an eclipse of the 
moon, which takes place in consequence of the earth coming 
between the sun and the moon, and causing the circular 
shadow of the earth to be thrown on the latter body. 

4. If the earth, instead of being round in all directions, was merely 
a circular flat body like the top of a round table, the shadow thrown 
from it on the moon would at one time or other present the appearance 
of an oval, of a straight line, or some other figure different from that 
which it has always been found to assume. 

5. Sailing round the world is another proof of its globular 
form. It is well known that navigators, by leaving any sea¬ 
port, Philadelphia for instance, and sailing as nearly east or 
west from it as the form of the different continents will per¬ 
mit, may go round the world and return to the place they left 
in a direction opposite to that from which they started. 

6. To sail round the world is called circumnavigating it, and was 
first accomplished by Magellan, a Portuguese navigator, more than 
three hundred years ago. It was for a long time considered a great 
undertaking, but it has been of late years so often performed, that it is 
not now thought to be an enterprise of any importance. 

-57- 

7. When a ship comes from sea towards the land, we first 
get sight of the tops of the masts and rigging; as she advan¬ 
ces nearer, the lower parts are seen ; and at last the hull, or 
body of the vessel, comes distinctly into view. If the earth 
was not spherical, the hull would be the first part seen. 

8. A person sailing to the southern parts of the earth, perceives that 
the sun appears more and more to come directly over him at noon, which 
at length actually happens; and after he has passed the Equator, the 
sun begins to appear to the northward, and will go farther and farther 
in that direction as he advances south. 

9. New stars will also come into view in the southern horizon, while 
those in the northern parts will gradually disappear. These circum¬ 
stances could not possibly happen if the earth were a flat body, whereas 


every direction? 4. If the earth was a circular flat body what appear¬ 
ance would its shadow present ? 5. What is another proof of its 

globular form? How must navigators sail to go round the world? 
6. What is it called ? Who was the first that did it ? What was it 
for a long time considered ? 7. What do we first get sight of when a 

ship comes to sea ? What at last comes distinctly into view ? 8. What 

will a person sailing to the south perceive? After he has passed the 
Equator, what will begin to appear? 9. What will come into view? 





DESCRIPTIVE GEOGRAPHY 


79 



What could not possibly happen ? 10. How many inhabitants are there 

on the earth ? Suppose they were equally distributed, what would be 
the effqct ? 11. How long on an average does a generation of men exist ? 

How many are born and die every thirty-three years ? How many die 
every year ? Every day ? Every hour ? Every minute ? 12. How long 
has the world been created ? How many generations are supposed to 
have lived since that time ? 13. When was the duration of life greater 


Ship coming from Sea. 


on the supposition that it is spherical, they all appear simple and pro¬ 
bable. 

10. The inhabitants of the earth amount to about eight hun¬ 
dred millions, and if they were equally distributed, every 
square mile of land would contain 16 human beings. 

11. On an average, a generation of men is supposed to exist about 
33 years. Some individuals live more than twice, and a very few three 
times that period ; but the estimate is that 800 millions of human beings 
are born and die every 33 years; being at the rate of almost 25 mil¬ 
lions a year, 66,000 every day, 2700 every hour, and 45 every minute. 

12. The creation of the world, according to the book of 
Genesis, took place near 6,000 years ago, so that supposing 
the average duration of life to have been always the same, 
about 175 generations of men would have existed since that 
time. 

13. In the early ages of the earth, however, the duration of life was 
greater than at present; therefore, it is probable that a smaller number 
of generations of men must have existed than according to the above 
calculations. 



















80 


DESCRIPTIVE GEOGRAPHY 


-. 58- 

1 4 . The world comprises five great divisions, viz: Ameri¬ 
ca, Europe, Asia, Africa, and Oceanica, these are each 
subdivided into various Empires, Kingdoms, Republics, &c. 

15. America is a great continent, entirely separated from the other 
parts of the earth. It is often called the New World, and also the 
Western continent. 

16. Europe is the smallest of the five grand divisions, yet it contains 
the most powerful nations in the world. 

17. Asia is the largest division of the Globe, and comprises more 
than one half of the Eastern continent. It is the most populous quarter 
of the earth. 

18. Africa is a great peninsula, united to Asia by the isthmus of 
Suez. It is the least known of any of the great divisions of the earth. 

19. Oceanica comprises the various groups of Islands situated in the 
Pacific Ocean between the Eastern and Western continents. 

20. Of the population of the earth, 400 millions belong to 
the European or Caucasian race, 280 millions to the Asiatic 
or Mongolian race, 90 millions to the African or Negro race, 
20 millions to the Malay race, and 10 millions to the American 
race. 



SquareMiles 

Population. 


Square Miles. 

America .... 

Europe. 

Asia. 

15,000,000 

3,500,000 

16,000,000 

11,000,000 

4,500,900 

45,000,000 

230,000,000 

450,000,000 

57,000,000 

18,000,000 

Northern Ocean 
Pacific do. 

Atlantic do. 
Indian do. 

Southern do. 

6,000,000 

77,000,000 

34,000,000 

20,000,000 

13,000,000 

Africa. 

Oceanica .... 

50,000,000 

800,000,000 

150,000,000 


than at present ? 14. What does the world comprise ? What are they ? 

15. What is America? 16. What is Europe? 17. What is Asia? 
18. What is Africa? 19. What does Oceanica comprise? 20. Of 
the population of the earth, how many belong to the European race ? 
The Asiatic ? The African ? The Malay ? The American ? Tell 
from the table the number of square miles and population in America. 
In Europe. In Asia. In Africa. In Oceanica. Tell the extent in 
squarq^jniles of the Northern Ocean. The Pacific. The Atlantic. 
The Indian. The Southern. 





















AMERICA. 


81 


AMERICA. 



- 59 - 

21. America is an extensive continent, comprising one of 
the grand divisions of the globe. It contains about three- 
tenths of the dry land on the surface of the earth, and is 
washed on all sides by vast oceans. 

22. Its climate is various, embracing that of every Zone; 
the torrid, the temperate on both sides of the equator, and 

I part of the frigid. It is said to be colder, generally, than in 
places in the same latitude in other parts of the world. 

23. This continent is distinguished for the variety and 
richness of its vegetable productions, the number of its mines 

i of gold, sflver, and precious stones, and for the freedom of 
its political institutions. 

24. The inhabitants are supposed to amount to about 45 
millions, of whom 19 millions are white, 10 millions of In¬ 
dians, 8 millions of negroes, and 8 millions of the mixed 

| races. 

25. The whites are chiefly English in the North, and Spaniards in 

America. Q. — 21. What does America contain? 22. Wha^^Said 

I of the climate? 23. For what is this continent distinguished? 

! 24. What is the number of inhabitants ? 25. What are the Whites ? 

6 










82 descriptive geography. 

the South, with some French, Portuguese, Germans, Dutch, &c. Tho 
negroes are Africans and their descendants,who were purchased as 
slaves in their native country and brought hither from time to time. 

6. The aboriginal population consists of two distinct races ; the 
Esquimaux* inhabiting the shores and Islands of the Arctic regions, 
and the copper-coloured Indians who are spread over the rest ot the 
continent. 

7 . America is frequently called the Western continent, 
from its extent, and also the New World from its recent dis¬ 
covery- It was unknown to the rest of mankind until the 
year 1492. It was at that time discovered by Christopher 
Columbus, a native of Genoa, in Italy, who was the most 
skilful navigator of his age. 

8. The great object which engaged the attention of the maritime 
nations of Europe, at that period, was a passage by sea to the East 
Indies. 

9. The spherical figure of the earth, which Columbus understood, 
made him conceive the idea that the eastern parts of the world stretched 
so fur towards Europe, that they might be reached in a moderate space 
of time by sailing westward. 

10. The project of Columbus was generally regarded as so visionary, 
that it was only after many years of ardent solicitation, that Ferdinand 
and Isabella, King and Queen of Spain, were at last induced to patronize 
his enterprise. 

- 60 - 

11. He was furnished by them with three small vessels and ninety 
men, and left Palos, a port on the south of Spain, August 3d, 1492. 
On the 12th of October following, he discovered Guanahani Island, 
which he named St. Salvador. 

12. He visited at that time several of the adjacent Islands, and re¬ 
turned to Spain, where he was received with the greatest honours. He 
made three other successful voyages of discovery, but was, notwith¬ 
standing, treated with gross injustice by those who were envious of the 
fame he had acquired. 


The Negroes ? 6. The Aboriginal population ? 7. What is Amer¬ 

ica frequently called ? In what year was it discovered? Who dis¬ 
covered it? 8. What great object engaged the attention of the 
nations of Europe at that period? 9. What idea did Columbus con¬ 
ceive? 10. Who patronized him? 11. What did they furnish him 
with ?j„ When did he leave Spain ? When did he discover Guanahani ? 
12. What did he visit at that time ? How was he received in Spain ? 


* Esquimaux , Es-ke-mo. 








AMERICA. 


83 


13. The discovery of Columbus excited a spirit of enterprise unknown 
nnd unfelt at any time before, and drew numerous adventurers from 
all parts of Europe. 

14. In 1497, John Cabot, and his son Sebastian, natives of Venice, 
in the service of Henry VII. of England, discovered North America, 
and explored the coast from Newfoundland to Florida. 

15. In 1499, Americus Vespucius, a native of Florence, visited South 
America. On his return to Europe, he published the first account of 
the New World, of which he claimed the original discovery, and thereby 
gave his name to the Western Continent. This however docs not lessen 
the glory which crowns the discovery of Columbus, and which will de¬ 
scend with his memory to the most distant ages. 

16. It was at first supposed that America was a part of the Eastern 
Continent; the Islands first discovered received therefore the name of 
the West Indies, and the inhabitants that of Indians, which was after¬ 
wards extended to the natives of the whole country. 

17. Much controversy has taken place on the origin of the inhabitants 
of the New World : they were found in various stages of society, from 
the lowest savage state to that of a half-civilized people. The conclu¬ 
sion is, that they emigrated from the Eastern Continent, and that they 
reached America from the nearest points of North-Western Europe and 
North-Eastern Asia, but at what period is entirely unknown. 

18. Several years elapsed before America was known to be a sepa¬ 
rate continent; at length Balbao, a Spanish adventurer, ascended the 
mountains in the isthmus of Darien, and first saw the Pacific Ocean. 

19. The Western Continent is generally described under 
two grand divisions, viz : North America, and South America; 
these are joined together by the isthmus of Darien. There 
is also a great collection of islands lying between the two 
continents, usually called the West Indies; but by some it is 
also termed the Columbian Archipelago. 


What did he afterwards do ? IIow was lie treated? 13. What did 
the discovery of Columbus excite? 14. Who discovered North Amer¬ 
ica? 15. Who published the first account of the New World? After 
whom was it named ? What will descend to the most distant ages ? 
16. What was America supposed to be? What did the Islands first 
discovered receive ? The inhabitants ? 17. What has taken place on 

the origin of the inhabitants? How were they found? What is the 
conclusion? 18. Who first saw the Pacific Ocean? 19. What are 
the divisions of the Western continent ? 




84 


DESCRIPTIVE GEOGRAPHY 


✓ 


NORTH AMERICA. 



North American Indians. 


- 61 - 

1. North America comprises the northern division of the 
Western Continent. It extends from the Arctic Ocean to the 
Isthmus of Darien, a distance of 4800 miles in length, and 
from 3200 to 2600 in breadth. 

2 . The Rivers, Lakes, Plains, and Mountains, of this 
continent, are all on a grand scale, and are among the most 
remarkable in the world. 

3. The Mississippi and Missouri far surpasses, in length of course, 
the principal rivers of the eastern continent; and Lake Superior is the 
largest body of fresh water known. It forms, with the great lakes 
with which it is connected, a vast interior sea, affording a continuous 
navigation many hundreds of miles in extent. 

4. The precious and useful metals and minerals, exist in 
North America in great abundance. Gold, silver, copper, and 
tin, are found in Mexico,- and gold, iron, lead, and coal, in the 


North America. Q. —1. What is North America? What is its 
extent? 2. What are on a grand scale? 3. What is said of its 
rivers and lakes ? 4. What exists in great abundance ? What 































NORTH AMERICA 


85 


United States—where the three latter abound in such quanti¬ 
ties, that ages of the most active industry will not probably 
exhaust them. 

5. Among the animals of North America, there are several species 
not found in any other part of the world. The grizzly and barren ground 
bears are peculiar; also the moose or elk, the wapiti, and the caribou or 
rein-deer. The buffalo, musk-ox, and rocky mountain sheep and goat, 
all differ from animals of the same kind found elsewhere. 



Buffalo. Rocky Mountain Sheep. 


6. Various species of birds abound ; of the rapacious kind, there are 
eagles, vultures, hawks, falcons, &c. The bald-headed eagle is well 
known as being the chosen emblem of our own republic. The wild 
turkey is a native of this continent, and was introduced into Europe 
about 30 years after the discovery of America. 



Bald Eagle. Pinnated Grouse. 


7. The highly esteemed canvas-back duck, the diminutive hum- 


abounds in the United States ? 5. What is said of the animals of 

North America ? 6. What species of birds abound ? What is said 

of the wild turkey, &c.? 7. What other birds are mentioned? 





DESCRIPTIVE GEOGRAPHY. 


86 

ming-bird, the whip-poor-will, the blue jay, and the mocking bird, are 
all confined to this continent; while grouse, pheasants, &c., of different 
kinds, are found in various parts, and are highly esteemed for food. 



Alligator. Rattle Snake. 


8. The alligator exists only in the southern section of the continent, 
being seldom seen north of Louisiana and the Carolinas. The rattle¬ 
snake is peculiar to the New World; it is formidable for the deadly 
venom of its bite, and comprises five or six different varieties. 

9. The Indians and Esquimaux constitute the original inhabitants 
of the country. The Indians are usually tall, straight, and erect in 
form, of a dark copper-colour, with high cheek-bones and long coarse 
black hair; while the Esquimaux are short and stout in person, and of 
a dirty reddish yellow complexion. The latter are lively and cheerful 
in disposition, and appear to be more social and domestic in their habits 
than savages usually are. 

10. North America is politically divided into the Republics of the 
United States, Texas, Mexico, and Guatimala: these occupy the conti¬ 
nent south and west of the great lakes, while the northern parts com¬ 
prise the colonial territories of Great Britain and Russia. 


OBSERVATIONS ON THE QUESTIONS. 

In bounding any country or state, let the learner tell what is on the 
north, what on the south, on the east, and on the west. 

To the first question on the following page—How is Russian America 
bounded ? the answer will be, on the north by the Polar Sea, soutffby the 
Pacific Ocean, east by British America, and west by Bhering’s Strait. 

In telling of Gulfs, Bays, or Sounds, say what countries they are in, 
or are surrounded by, and what Oceans they are connected with, thus: 
Baffin’s Bay is bounded east by Greenland, west by Prince William’s 
Land, and leads into the Atlantic Ocean. 


8. Of the alligator ? 9. Who comprise the original inhabitants of 

the country? What is said of the Indians? Of the Esquimaux? 
10. How is North America politically divided? 




NORTH AMERICA 


87 

Tell what countries, or divisions, Straits separate, and what Oceans, 
Bays, &c. they connect: thus, Bhering’s Strait separates America from 
Asia, and connects the Pacific and the Arctic Oceans. 

Tell where Lakes are situated, and with what Rivers they are con¬ 
nected : thus. Lakes Superior, Huron, Erie, and Ontario, are between 
Canada and the United States, and flow into the St. Lawrence River. 

Tell where Peninsulas are situated, to what countries they belong, 
and what waters surround them: thus, Nova Scotia is in the southern 
part of British America; it has the Bay of Fundy and the Gulf of St. 
Lawrence on the north, and the Atlantic Ocean on the south. 

Tell where Islands are situated, and their direction from the nearest 
Continent or other Islands : thus, Cuba is in the West Indies ; it is south 
of the United States, east of Mexico, and north of Jamaica. 

Tell where Mountains are situated, how they extend, what countries 
they separate, and what their length is: thus, the Rocky Mountains are 
in the western part of North America; they extend through Russian 
America, British America, the United States, and Mexico; they sepa¬ 
rate in part the United States and British America, and are 4,000 miles 
in length. 

Tell where Rivers rise, in what direction they flow, and where they 
empty: thus, the Mississippi River rises west of Lake Superior; it flows 
southward through the United States, and empties into the Gulf of 
Mexico. 

USE OF THE SCALES. 

By means of the Scales of Miles, which are attached to nearly all the 
Maps, the learner may measure the length and breadth of Continents, 
Seas, Gulfs, &c. Thus, for example, take with a pair of compasses, or 
the edge of a slip of paper, the length of the Scale of Miles of Map 
No. 3, and measure with it from Smith’s Sound to the southern ex¬ 
tremity of North America; it will be found to extend nearly five times 
the length of the scale, or about 4,800 miles. On north latitude 40 de¬ 
grees, the breadth of the Continent is 2,600 miles ; on latitude 52 degrees, 
3,000 miles, and from Nova Scotia to Porto Rico 1,800. These exercises 
will give variety to the studies, and impress on the mind of the pupil 
the length and breadth of countries and their distances from each other, 
&c., in a more decided manner than by any other method. 

By studying the Explanation on the Maps, the learner will under¬ 
stand how the Capitals of Countries, the population of the cities and 
towns, and the lengths of the rivers, are represented. 

- 62 - 

Map No. 3.—How is Russian America bounded ? British America 
bounded ? Capital ? United States bounded ? Capital ? Texas bound¬ 
ed ? Capital ? Mexico bounded ? Capital ? Guatimala bounded ? 
Capital? Balize bounded ? Capital? 

How is North America bounded ? 







88 DESCRIPTIVE GEOGRAPHY. 

Where is Coronation Gulf? G. of Boothia? G. of St. Lawrence? 
Welcome G. ? G. of Georgia? G. of California ? G. of Mexico? G. 
of Tehuantepec ? What is a Gulf or Bay ? 24, page 12. 


Where is Bristol Bay ? Melville B. ? Hudson’s B. ? Musquito B. ? 
Ungava B. ? James’B.? B. of Sir Francis Drake ? B. of Fundy ? 
Delaware B. ? Chesapeake B. ? Tampa B. ? B. of Campeche ? B. of 
Honduras ? B. of- Guatimala ? * 


Where is Norton’s Sound? Prince William’s S. ? Smith s S.? 
Lancaster S. ? Davy’s S. ? Queen Charlotte’s S. ? Albemarle S. ? 
What is a Sound ? 26, page 12. 


Where is Bhering’s t Strait ? Davis’ S. ? Cumberland S. ? Fro¬ 
bisher’s S. ? Hudson’s* S. ? S. of Bellisle ? t Gut or S. of Canseau ? 
Claaset’s S. ? How wide is Bhering’s S. ? 

What is a Strait ? 25, page 12. 


Where is Great Bear Lake? Great Slave L.? Athabasca L.? 
Winnipeg L.? L. Superior ? L. Huron? L. Michigan ? L. Erie? 
L. Ontario ? L. Chapala ? § L. Nicaragua ? [| What are the lengths of 
the four first and of the last Lake ? 

What is a Lake ? 29, page 12. 


Where is the Peninsula of Alaska ? Melville ? Greenland ? Nova 
Scotia? Florida? Yucatan? California? 

What is a Peninsula ? 54, page 16. 


Where is Cape Prince of Wales? C. Bathurst ? C. Brewster ? C. 
Farewell? C. St. Lewis? C. Race? C. Sable? N. S. C. Cod? 
C. Hatteras? C. Sable ? Fa. C. St. Antonio? C. Gracias h Dios? 
C. Mendocino? C. Morro Hermoso? C. St. Lucas? C. Gorda? 
Point De Witt Clinton? P. Beechey ? P. Barrow? Capes are fre¬ 
quently called Points. 

What is a Cape or Point? 57, page 16. 


Where is Nunnivack Island ? Kodiak I. ? Sitcha I. ? Queen Char¬ 
lotte’s I. ? Vancouver’s I. ? North Georgian Islands ? Southampton 
I. ? Disco I. ? Newfoundland I. ? Anticosti I. ? Prince Edward’s 
I. ? Cape Breton I. ? Bermudas Islands ? Bahama Islands ? The 
West Indies? Cuba? Hayti ? Jamaica? Porto Rico? The last 
four are called the Great Antilles. Where are the Caribbee Islands ? 
Where is Curacoa ? Margarita ? Buen Ayre ? Oruba ? Tortuga ? 
Orch ilia ? The last six are called the Little Antilles. 

What are Islands? 56, page 16. 


* Guatimala, Gwa-te-mah'-la. t Bhering’s, Be-rings'. | Bellisle, Bel-ile'. 
$ Chapala, Sha'-pa-la. || Nicaragua, Nic-ar-aw'-gua. 











RUSSIAN AMERICA. 


89 


- 63 - 

Where are the Rocky Mountains ? and what is their length ? Where 
are the Snowy Mts. ? Alleghany Mts. ? and their length ? Where are 
the Arctic Highlands ? The Mexican Cordilleras ? Where is Mount St. 
Elias ? ML Brown ? Mt. Hooker ? Tell the heights of the three last 
Mountains. Where is Long’s Peak ? Spanish P.? Popocatepetl*? 
The Water Volcano? Cosiguina ? The three last are Volcanos. 

What is a Volcano? 62, page 17. 


Where is Mackenzie’s River? Great Fish R.? Churchill R.? 
Nelson R. ? St. Lawrence R. ? Frazer’s R. ? Columbia R. ? Colo¬ 
rado R.? Rio del Norte? Brazos R. ? Mississippi R. ? Give the 
lengths of all these rivers, and the parts of the Ocean into which they 
flow. What is a River ? 34, page 13. 

What stream do you observe extending along the east coast of the 
United States from Florida to the Grand Bank of Newfoundland ? Gf, 
Sm. This is a remarkable current in the Atlantic Ocean, which runs 
where it is narrowest at the rate of 5 miles an hour, lessening in ra¬ 
pidity as it flows north. The water is warmer in the Gulf Stream than 
in the adjacent parts of the Ocean, and of a different colour also; so 
that sailors know when they come within its limits. 

How many miles is it from Labrador to Russia? To Denmark? 
From Vancouver’s Island to Mongolia? From California to Corea? 
To Thibet? To Hindoostan ? From the United States to Greece? 
From the Bermudas to Madeira? From the United States to Egypt? 
From Guatimala to Hindoostan ? 

Which are the eight largest Cities in North America ? The popula¬ 
tion of these is 80,000 and upwards. Bn., N.-Yk., Pa., Be., N.-Os., 
Ha., Mo., La. 

There are six Cities that contain between 40,000 and 80,000 inhabi¬ 
tants each ; which are they? Ml., Ci., S.-L.-Pi., Go., Oa., P.-Pe. 

There are fourteen Cities that contain between 20,000 and 40,000 in¬ 
habitants each ; which are they ? Qc., Ay., Pg., Le., Cn., Zs., Do., Vd., 
N.-Ga., Ln., Co., S.-Jo., Kn., S.-Js. What is a City ? 262, page 39. 

- 64 - 

RUSSIAN AMERICA. 

1 . Russian"}* America comprises that part of the Conti¬ 
nent lying nearest to Asia, from which it is separated by Bhe- 
ring’s Strait, and from British America by the 141st degree 
of west longitude. 

Russian America. Q.—1. What does Russian America comprise ? 
What separates Russian America from Asia ? What separates it from 


* j Popocatepetl, Po-po-cat-a-peet'-il. 


t Russian, Ru'-shan. 










90 DESCRIPTIVE GEOGRAPHY. 

It is a cold, dreary, and almost unknown region, inhabited 
chiefly by Indians and Esquimaux. 

2. The Russians have established a number of trading factories 
along the coast, the principal of which is New Archangel. Here they 
barter fire-arms, beads, tobacco, and other articles, for the furs ob¬ 
tained by the natives in hunting. 



Subterraneous Mansion of the Aleutian Islanders. 


3. The Aleutian* or Fox Islands extend to a great distance west¬ 
ward from the Peninsula of Alaska: they are inhabited by a race of 
savages who live in houses under ground, which contain each from 50 
to 150 inhabitants, and are divided into numerous apartments, which, 
though dark and dirty, protect their inmates effectually from the weather. 

Map No. 3.—What Sea bounds Russian America on the north ? Pr. — 
What Ocean on the south ? Pc. — What country on the east? B.-Aa.— 
What is the most northern point? Bw. — The most western Cape? 
P.-Ws. — What Peninsula in the south ? Aa. — What two Mountains in 
the south-east ? S.-Es., Fr. — On what Island is New Archangel situ¬ 
ated ? Sa. 

- 65- 

GREENLAND. 

1 . Greenland is one of the most desolate and barren re¬ 
gions on the face of the earth. An almost perpetual winter 
prevails, interrupted only by a short summer of a few weeks’ 

British America ? By whom is it chiefly inhabited ? 2. What have 

the Russians established along the coast ? How do they trade with the 
natives? 3. What Islands extend westward from Alaska? By whom 
are they inhabited ? How do they live ? What do they contain ? How 
are they divided ? 

Greenland. Q. —1. What is Greenland? To what power does it 


* Aleutian, Al-u'-shan. 








GREENLAND, AND BRITISH AMERICA. 91 

duration. The whole region is claimed by Denmark, which 
has formed some small settlements along the western coast. 

2. Several of these are also Moravian missionary stations, where the 
inhabitants have been in some measure converted from their ignorance 
and superstition, and partly enlightened by the doctrines of Christianity. 

3. In the Northern part of Greenland, Captain Ross discovered a 
district which he named the Arctic Highlands. The inhabitants, who 
had never before seen an European, were seized with the utmost asto¬ 
nishment, especially at the ships, which they at first imagined to be 
huge birds with wings. 

4. The cliffs on the coast present the remarkable phenomenon of red 
snow, the nature and origin of which has excited much controversy 
among the learned in Europe. 

Map No. 3. — What Bay bounds Greenland on the west? Bs.— 
What Ocean on the east? Ac. — What is its southern Cape? FI.— 
What missionary stations on the west coast ? Hg., Sp., N.-Ht., Ls., Jb., 
Lu. — What land on the east coast ? Ss. — Does the largest or smallest 
part of Greenland lie north of the Arctic circle ? Lt. — What Zone then 
is it in ? N.-Fd. 

- 66 - 

BRITISH AMERICA. 

1. British America comprises the whole of the American 
continent lying north of the United States, with the exception 
of the extreme north-western portion, which is claimed by 
Russia. It is a region of vast extent, being equal in area to 
the whole of the former country. 

2 . Its divisions are New Britain, Upper Canada, Lower 
Canada, New Brunswick, Prince Edward’s Island, Nova 
Scotia, and Cape Breton, together with the Island of New¬ 
foundland. About one-tenth part only of these territories is 
as yet settled by a civilized population. 

3. The climate of British America is very severe, much 
exceeding what is felt under the same latitude in the Old Con¬ 
tinent. Even the southern sections are covered with ice and 
snow for five or six months in the year; and in the northern 
parts of the country the winter is almost perpetual. 

4. The lakes which form a portion of the boundary line between 

belong ? 2. What are several of the settlements ? Of the inhabitants ? 

3. What did Captain Ross discover? What did the natives imagine 
respecting the ships of their visiters ? 4. What do the cliffs on the coast 
present ? 

British America. Q. — 1. What does British America comprise? 
2. What are its divisions? 3. Of the climate? 4. The lakes? 






DESCRIPTIVE GEOGRAPHY 


92 

this territory and the United States, are on a greater scale than in any 
other part of the world. These form a vast inland sea of fresh water, 
which is navigable for vessels of the largest burthen, and is traversed 
by a number of steam-boats, ships, &c., in almost every direction. 



The White or Great Polar Bear. Musk Ox. 


5. The White Bear, Musk Ox, Caribou or American Rein-Deer, and 
other animals, abound in all the northern parts of this region, and sup¬ 
ply the inhabitants with the chief part of their clothing and food, besides 
furnishing the skins which are bartered with the traders of the Hudson’s 
Bay Company for the various manufactured articles which have become 
essential to the comfort and even existence of the Indians. 

6. Each province of British America has a governor and council, 
appointed by the Sovereign of Great Britain,* and a house of Commons 
or Representatives chosen by the people. The whole territory, however, 
is under the control of a Governor General, who resides at Quebec. 

7. Canada was originally settled by the French, but fell into the 
hands of the English in consequence of the victory gained near Quebec, 
in 1759, by General Wolfe. 

8. Since that period the trade and population of these provinces have 
greatly increased, and they have likewise enjoyed a considerable degree 
of prosperity, but owing to various unpopular acts of government, much 
discontent has been of late evinced by the people, especially in Canada. 

Map No. 3.—What bounds British America on the North ? P.-Sa. 

— On the West ? R.-Aa. — South ? U.-Ss, — East ? A.-On. — What 
separates it from Greenland? B.-By. — In what continent is British 
America ? Wn. — What circle extends through the North part ? Ac. 

— In what Zone is that part of it which lies north of the Arctic 
circle? N.-Fd. — In what Zone-is the southern part? N.-Te. — In 
what latitude is British America ? N.-Le. — In what longitude from 
Greenwich ? W.-Le. 


What do they form ? 5. What animals abound ? 6. What is said 

of the provinces of British America ? 7. By what people was Canada 

first settled ? 8. What has taken place since ? What has been enjoyed ? 
Evinced ? 


* Britain, Brit'-in. 





NEW BRITAIN. 


93 


-67- 

NEW BRITAIN. 


1 . New Britain comprises that part of British America 
situated north of the Canadas and the United States. It con¬ 
tains more than three-fourths of the whole of the British pos¬ 
sessions, and is divided by Hudson’s Bay into two unequal 
portions. 

2 . The only trade in this region is that of furs, to facilitate 
which, the Hudson’s Bay Company have established forts and 
trading-houses in various quarters, extending from Hudson’s 
Bay westward, to the shores of the Pacific, and to the north¬ 
ward almost to the Arctic Ocean. The whole region is in 
consequence often called the Hudson’s Bay Company Territory. 



Beaver, 


Raccoon, 


3. The Beaver, Raccoon, Muskrat, and other animals, are eagerly 
hunted for their furs; the exports of which have amounted in some years 
to upwards of a million of dollars from the port of Quebec alone. 

4. The coast of Labrador, and the whole of the northern shores of 
this region, from Greenland westward to Bhering’s Strait, is inhabited 
by the Esquimaux, a race of savages differing essentially from the 
Indians, in form, disposition, and complexion. 

5. Among these people on the coast of Labrador, the Moravian 
Missionaries have established the settlements of Nain, Okkak, Hopedale, 
&c., and have partially improved their habits and condition. 

Map No. 3.—What territory lies along the east coast ? Lr. — On the 
east side of Hudson’s Bay ? E.-Me. — On the west side ? N.-N.-Ws. 

N.-S.-Ws. — On the coast of Baffin’s Bay ? P.-W.-Ld. — West of the 

New Britain. Q. — 1. What does New Britain comprise ? 2. What 
trade has it? What company has established forts in various quarters ? 
3. What animals are hunted for their furs ? 4. What people inhabit 

the coast of Labrador and the Northern shores ? 5. What have the 
Missionaries established ? 









94 DESCRIPTIVE GEOGRAPHY. 

Gulf of Boothia ? B.-Fx.— East of Bathurst Inlet ? W.-4.-Ld.— What 
large Bay in New Britain ? Hs. —How long and wide is it ? — Between 
New Britain and Greenland ? Bs. — IIow wide is it ? — Name the 
four largest Lakes in New Britain ? G.-Br., G.-Se., Aa., Wg.— The 

length of each ? — What large river flows into the Polar Sea ? Ms. — 
Its length ? — What two rivers flow into lake Athabasca ? Pe., Aa.—* 
Their lengths ? — What river flows into Lake Winnipeg ? Sn. — Its 
length? — What river connects Lake Winnipeg with Hudson’s Bay? 
Nn. — Which are the principal forts ? Re., Rn., Cl., Yk., Sn., Ay., Me. 

— The principal Indian tribes? Cr., D-Rb., Cs., Kx., B.-Ft., As. 

— What Mountains are in the west part of New Britain ? Ry. — Their 
length ? — Which are the two highest ? Bn., Hr. — The height of 
each ? r, 

-- 68 - 

UPPER CANADA. 

1. Upper Canada extends along the whole chain of the 
great lakes almost to the western extremity of Lake Supe¬ 
rior. The climate is generally healthy and salubrious. The 
summer heats are more moderate, and the winters shorter and 
less rigorous than in the Lower Provinces. 

2. The soil in the settled parts of the country is mostly very 
fertile, and yields abundant crops of grain, wheat, Indian 
corn, flax, &c. Tobacco is also cultivated in the south-western 
districts. 

3. The most important canals in British America are in 
Upper Canada ; these are the Rideau and the Welland canals; 
the first extends from the Utawas river to Kingston. The 
Welland canal unites Lake Erie with Lake Ontario; both these 
works allow vessels of 125 tons burthen to pass through. 

4. In this province, on the Niagara river, which connects Lake Erie 
with Lake Ontario, is the Falls of Niagara, 165 feet high. This is one 
of the most magnificent of Nature’s works. The noise of the cataract 
is heard, and the cloud of vapour which rises from it is seen, at the 
distance of several miles. 

5. Toronto and Kingston, on the northern shore of Lake Ontario, are 
the two principal towns of Upper Canada. Toronto, the capital, is 
pleasantly situated on a bay of the same name ; it is regularly laid out, 
and has a number of handsome buildings. 

6. Kingston is the principal British naval station on Lake Ontario; 

Upper Canada. Q. —1. What is the extent of Upper Canada ? Of 
the climate ? 2. The soil ? What does it yield ? 3. Canals in 

Upper Canada? 4. Whatvgreat falls are in Upper Canada? IIow 
high are they ? 5. What is the Capital ? 6. The principal British 

naval station ? 






UPPER. AND LOWER CANADA. 


05 





Falls of Niagara. 


it has a fine harbour and a flourishing trade. Niagara, at the mouth 
of the Niagara river, is a small town with about 2000 inhabitants. 
Goderich, on Lake Huron, and London, on Thames river,* are the chief 
towns in the western part of the province. 

Map No. 4. — What lakes separate Upper Canada from the United 
States? Oo., Ee., Hn., Sr. — What river, in part, from New York ? 
S.-Le. — What river from Lower Canada ? Us. — What is the eastern 
part of Lake Huron called ? Me. — What Isles in the north part ? 
Me. — What Island in the western part of Lake Superior? Re.— 
What is the length of Lakes Superior, Huron, Erie, and Ontario ? - - Ou 
Map No. 9, tell who was defeated on the River Thames, in 1814 ? Pr. 
— Who was killed there ? Th. He was a celebrated Indian chief. — 
On Map No. 7, tell what battles were fought in 1814 near the falls of 
Niagara ? F.-Ee., Ca. 

-69- 

LOWER CANADA. 

1. Lower Canada extends on both sides of the St. Law¬ 
rence river, from its mouth to the river Utawas. The lower 
part of the province is rugged, cold and sterile; but the upper 
portion is fertile, well watered, and more moderate in tem¬ 
perature. All sections have, however, the climate of Sweden, 
though in the latitude of France. 

2 . More than three-fourths of the inhabitants are of French 
origin ; they speak the French language, and are all Catho- 

Lower Canada. Q. —1. How far does Lower Canada extend ? 2. How 


* Thames, Tames. 










96 DESCRIPTIVE GEOGRAPHY. 

lies. The remainder are mostly natives of Great Britain and 
their descendants, who are principally Protestants. 



Canadian Habitans. 


3. Education is much neglected, 
and the chief part of the people are 
very ignorant. The native French 
Canadians are called habitans. They 
are gay in their dispositions, cour¬ 
teous and polite in their manners, 
and strongly attached to their reli¬ 
gion and native country. 

4. Lower Canada produces wheat, 
Indian corn, and other grains com¬ 
mon to the northern parts of the 
United States. The exports are grain, 
flour, lumber, furs, pot and pearl 
ashes, &c. 



City of Quebec. 


5. The city of Quebec is the capital of Lower Canada, and also of all 
British America; it is very strongly fortified, and situated half in a plain 
along the River St. Lawrence, and the other half on a steep, perpendicu¬ 
lar rock, 350 feet high. These are called the upper and lower towns. 

6. Montreal* is the commercial capital of Canada; it is the centre 
of the fur trade, and of the commerce with the United States. 

The town of Three Rivers is the next in importance to Quebec and 
Montreal. William Henry, Chambly,t and St. Johns, are small towns 
on the Sorelle t River. 


many of the inhabitants are of French origin? What are the rest? 

3. What is said of education ? The character of the French Canadian ? 

4. Produce? Exports? 5. What is Quebec? 6. Montreal? Name 

the other Towns. 


* Montreal , Mont-re-awl'. t Chambly , Shamb'-le. t Sorelle, Sor-el'. 













NEW BRUNSWICK 


97 


Map No. 4.— What country lies west of Lower Canada? U.-Ca.— 
What two States lie south ? N.-Yk., Vt.— What State lies east ? Me. 

— The principal River ? S.-Le. Its length ? (This includes the Lakes.) 

— What Lake does the Saguenay flow from? S.-Is. The length of 
the Saguenay ? The Utawas ? What River unites Lakes Champlain 
and St. Peters? Se. — The population of Quebec ? ^ Of Montreal? — 
What three Lakes are in Lower Canada ? S.-Js. t S.-Ps., Tg. 

-- 70 - 

NEW BRUNSWICK. 

1. New Brunswick is situated to the east of the State of 
Maine, and to the north-west of Nova Scotia. Until the year 
1784 it was included within the limits of the latter, which at 
that period was divided into two separate provinces. 

2. This colony is but partially cleared, and contains exten¬ 
sive forests which furnish large quantities of excellent timber. 
The soil is generally of good quality, especially along tho 
banks of the St. John’s and other rivers. 

3. The fisheries are a source of considerable wealth, and employ 
many of the inhabitants, the produce being with lumber the chief arti¬ 
cles of export. Ship-building is an important branch of industry, and 
is carried on to a considerable extent 

4. The Bay of Fundy, which separates this province from Nova 
Scotia, is remarkable for the great and rapid rise of its tides, which often 
attain the height of 70 feet. 

5. Frederickton, the seat of government, is situated some distance up 
the river St. John’s. It is rather regularly built, chiefly of wood, and 
contains the government offices, several churches, and,a college. 

6. The town of St. John’s is the most considerable place in New 
Brunswick, and has an extensive commerce. St. Andrew’s, at the head 
of Passamaquoddy Bay, is the next town to St John’s in trade and 
population. 


Map No. 3.—What Island lies near New Brunswick ? P.-Es. — What 
Gulf to the eastward ? S.-Le. — What Bay on the south ? Fy. — What 
Peninsula south-east ? N.-Sa. — What is the population of St. John’s ? 
Of Frederickton ? 


New Brunswick. Q. —1. How is New Brunswick situated ? In what 
was it included ? 2. What is said of the soil ? 3. The chief articles 

of export? What is an important branch of industry? 4. Of the Bay 
of Fundy ? 5. The Capital ? 6. St. John’s ? St. Andrew’s ? 

7 







08 


DESCRIPTIVE GEOGRAPHY 


- 71 -- 

NOVA SCOTIA. 

1. Nova Scotia was first settled by the French, and named 
by them Acadia. In 1763 it was conquered by Great Bri¬ 
tain, and since that time has been called by its present name. 

2. It is a large peninsula, 280 miles long, and from 50 to 
100 broad. On the coast the soil is generally poor, but in the 
interior and northern parts it is well adapted to cultivation. 

3. Wheat and other grains, with potatoes of the finest quality, are 
raised to some extent. Coal, and gypsum, or plaster of paris, are found 
in vast quantities, and are largely exported: copper, iron, and various 
other minerals, also abound. 

4. Halifax, the capital, is situated on one of the finest harbours in the 
world, and contains the most extensive dock-yard in British America. 
Lunenburg, Liverpool, Yarmouth, and Pictou, are all places ot some 
trade ; from the latter, coal is shipped to the United States in consider¬ 
able quantities. 

5. Cape Breton Island.— Cape Breton is a large Island, 
separated from Nova Scotia by the Gut or Strait of Canseau ; * 
it is about 100 miles in length, and from 30 to 80 in breadth, 
and is divided into two nearly equal portions by an arm of the 
sea called the Bras d’Or. 

6. Agriculture is in a backward state, the Cod Fishery attracting the 
chief industry of the people. This island was in 1820 politically at¬ 
tached to Nova Scotia, and sends two members to the House of Assembly. 

7. Louisburg, which the French carefully fortified, was once a place 
of great importance, but it is now entirely deserted ; and Sidney, a vil¬ 
lage of about 800 inhabitants, is all the capital Cape Breton possesses. 


Map JYo. 3.—What Islands lie east of Nova Scotia? C.-Bn., Se. 
— What Island north ? P. Es. — What separates Nova Scotia and Cape 
Breton? G.-Ca. — What Ocean on the south-east? Ac. — What Bay 
on the north-west ? Fy.— What is the population of Halifax ? Lunen¬ 
burg? Liverpool? The southern Cape of Nova Scotia? Sa. 

Nova Scotia. Q.—1. By whom was Nova Scotia first settled ? What 
was its first name ? When was it conquered by Great Britain ? 2. What 
is this Colony ? What is said of its soil ? 3. Its productions ? Its 

minerals ? 4. The capital and other towns ? 5. What is Cape Breton ? 

How is it divided ? 6. What is said of its agriculture, &c. ? When 

was it attached to Nova Scotia ? 7. What is said of Louisburg, &c. 


* Canseau, Can-so’. 







NEWFOUNDLAND. 


99 


72 


9. Prince Edward’s Island.— Prince Edward’s is a fine 
fertile ndand in the Gulf of St. Lawrence, lying nearly parallel 
to the coasts of Nova Scotia and New Brunswick. 

10. The soil is good and well adapted to agriculture, which is in a 
more improved state than in any of the neighbouring colonies. Char¬ 
lotte Town is the capital, with 3,500 inhabitants. There are several other 
small towns. 


NEWFOUNDLAND. 

1. Newfoundland is a large island, situated at the mouth 
of the Gulf of St. Lawrence, and forming the most eastern part 
of British America. The soil is mostly barren, and the timber 
scanty and of small size. 

2. It owes its importance to its Cod fisheries, which are the 
most valuable in the world. The fish are caught in vast 
numbers upon certain shallow places in the sea in the vicinity 
of the island, called the Banks of Newfoundland. 

3. A great number of vessels and men (chiefly American and French) 
here find employment, while the inhabitants of the island carry on their 
fisheries along the shore. 

4. The fishing business is dangerous, but profitable ; it is an admirable 
nursery for the hardy seamen of the New England states, and furnishes 
us with an important article of export to other countries. 

5. St. John’s is the principal place in the island; the houses are all 
built of wood, and the town has in consequence suffered severely from 
fires. Harbour Grace is, next to St. John’s, the most important town. 


Map No. 3. — What bounds Newfoundland on the east ? A. On. — 
On the west ? G. S.-Le. — What Strait separates it from Labrador ? 
Be. — What banks are near the Island ? Gd. Gn. — How long and wide 
is the Grand Bank? Newfoundland? What is the population of St. 
John’s ? Of Harbour Grace. 


Prince Edward's Island. Q. — 9. What is Prince Edward’s Island ? 
10. What is said of the soil and agriculture ? The capital and its popu- 
lation ? 

Newfoundland. Q. — 1. What is Newfoundland ? 2. To what does 

it owe its importance ? 3. What are they called ? Who find employ¬ 
ment there ? 4. What is said of the fishing business ? What does it 

furnish us with ? 5. Describe St. John’s. Harbour Grace. 






100 


DESCRIPTIVE GEOGRAPHY. 


-- 73 - 

UNITED STATES. 



1. The United States form one government, comprising 
twenty-six states, six territories, and one federal district. They 
occupy the most valuable and productive part of North Ame¬ 
rica, and rank amongst the most powerful, commercial, and 
wealthy nations of the globe. 

2. They are distinguished for the freedom and excellence 
of their political institutions, the rapid increase of the popula¬ 
tion, and for the intelligence, industry, and enterprise of the 
inhabitants. 

3. The territory of the United States is very extensive; it 
ranges through 29 degrees of latitude, and 58 degrees of 
longitude. The frontier outline has an extent of 10,000 miles, 
and a line drawn from north-west to south-east would mea¬ 
sure 3,200 miles. 

4. In so vast a region there is of course included a great 
variety of surface, soil, and climate. It is well watered by 
noble streams, which not only give fertility to their borders, 

United States. Q. — 1. What do the United States form? Com¬ 
prising what ? What do they occupy ? 2. For what are they distin¬ 
guished ? 3. What is said of the territory? 4. What does it include? 











UNITED STATES 


101 


but are ready to carry the gifts of the earth to the ocean, and 
to bring back to the inhabitants the products of other climes. 

5. The soil returns an ample harvest for all that is planted 
in it, and the climate is favourable to nearly every production 
of the earth, that can sustain life or increase its luxuries. 

6. Agriculture is the leading pursuit in this country. The eastern 
states are devoted to grazing, and the dairy ; the middle and western to 
the raising of wheat, Indian corn, &c.; and the southern states, to cot¬ 
ton, tobacco, sugar, and rice. Slave labour is chiefly employed in the 
southern and some of the western states. 

7. The United States are richly supplied with valuable minerals. 
Gold, the most precious, and iron, the most useful of metals, with lead, 
coal, salt, and lime, all exist, most of them in great abundance; while 
beautiful and durable building materials are furnished by the extensive 
quarries of the different sections of the Union. 

8. The manufactures are already extensive, and are rapidly increas¬ 
ing: they amount in value, annually, to about 320 millions of dollars, 
and the capital invested in all the manufactures in the Union, is supposed 
not to be less than 1,000 millions of dollars. 

9. The commerce is, next to that of Great Britain, the largest in the 
world; it extends to all parts of the earth, and embraces the products 
and manufactures of all nations. The number of vessels that enter and 
depart from the ports of the United States, amounts from 20,000 to 
23,000 every year. 

- 74 - 

10. The Fisheries are highly important, and are carried on mostly 
by the New England states: they embrace chiefly the whale, cod, and 
mackerel fisheries, the products of which amount to from 6 to 9 millions 
of dollars, annually. 

11. The whale fishery alone employs more than 140,000 tons of ship¬ 
ping, and 10,000 men. The ships employed in this business, are absent 
frequently two and three years. 

12. No part of the world presents such an extensive inland commerce 
as that of the United States. Steam vessels navigate all the principal 
rivers, lakes, bays, See. The Mississippi River and its tributaries alone 
are traversed by near 300 steamboats, ail of which make several voyages 
every year. 

13. The employment of Steam Power is probably greater in this 
country than in any other part of the world, and forms one of the prin- 


How is it watered ? 5. What of the soil ? Climate ? 6. Agriculture ? 

The eastern states ? The middle and western ? Southern ? 7. What 

of the minerals ? 8. Manufactures ? Their value and the capital em¬ 
ployed ? 9. The commerce? 10. The fisheries? 11. Whale fishery? 

12. The inland commerce? The Mississippi, See .? 13. Of the era- 





102 


DESCRIPTIVE GEOGRAPHY 



Whale Fishery.—Cutting up a Whale. 

cipal elements of American prosperity. 1300 steamboats have been 
built since the year 1807, of which 800 now exist; and the number of 
steam-engines in the United States employed in steamboats, locomotive 
rail-road cars, and for various manufacturing purposes, is not less than 
3,000. 

14. The Americans have surpassed all other nations in the number 
and extent of their canals and rail-roads ; the united length of the former 
is not less than 3,600 miles, the whole of which, with one or two excep¬ 
tions, have been executed in less than twenty years. 

15. The rail-roads, all constructed within the last ten years, amount 
to an aggregate of 1,500 miles, over which carriages are propelled by 
locomotive steam-engines at the rate of from 20 to 30 miles an hour. 

16. The United States are more distinguished for the general diffu¬ 
sion of knowledge, than for eminence in literature and science. The 
means of common school education are more widely extended than in 
any other part of the world, and there are numerous seminaries of learn¬ 
ing throughout the country, though there are no universities and colleges 
on so large a scale as some in Europe. 

17. The general government of the United States has done but little 
for the promotion of public instruction; but most of the states have mado 
legislative provision, and some have large funds set apart, for that pur¬ 
pose. The first settlers of New England paid a very laudable atten¬ 
tion to this important subject; and so early as the year 1628, a law was 
passed for the education of every child in the colonies. 

ployment of steam ? How many steamboats ? 14. What is said of tho 

Americans? Of canals? 15. Rail-roads ? 16. Of the United States ? 

Common school education ? Seminaries of learning ? 17. The general 






















UNITED STATES 


103 


-75- 

18. There is no established church in the United States, religion being 
left to the voluntary choice of the people; yet in all the well-settled parts 
of the Union, religious instruction and observances are as faithfully dis¬ 
pensed and periormed as in any other country in the world. 

19. The great body of the people are attached to the various sects 
belonging to the Protestant faith : of these the Baptists, Methodists, 
Presbyterians, and Lutherans, stand first as to numbers. There aro 
also many Roman Catholics, Universalists, Unitarians, and Friends or 
Quakers. 

20. The United States is a Federal Republic. Each state is inde¬ 
pendent in its local affairs; but the defence of the country, the regulation 
of commerce, and all the general concerns of the Union, are committed 
by the Constitution to a general government. 

21. The government comprises three distinct powers, the Legislative, 
Judicial, and Executive branches: the first named power makes tho 
laws, the second expounds, and the last executes them. 

22. The Legislative power is vested in a Congress consisting of a 
Senate and House of Representatives. The Senate consists of two 
members from each state, who are elected for six years, one-third of tho 
number being changed every two years. The members of the House 
of Representatives are elected by the people for two years; their number 
is, at present, 240. 

23. The Judicial power is composed of a Supreme Court of one chief 
and six associate Judges, who are appointed by the President, with tho 
advice and consent of the Senate, and hold their offices during life or 
good behaviour. 

24. The Executive power is vested in a President, who, together with 
the Vice-President, is chosen for four years by electors from all the 
states. The principal subordinate officers of the executive department 
are the Secretary of State, of the Treasury, of War, and of the Navy, 
the Post-Master General, and the Attorney-General. They are all re¬ 
movable at the will of the President, and, with the Vice President, form 
the Cabinet. 

25. The inhabitants of the United States may be estimated at about 
sixteen and a half millions, of which the black or coloured races form 
one-sixth part The Indians number about 300,000, but are not usually 
considered as forming a part of the population of the Union. 


Government T Of the first settlers in New England ? 18. Established 

Church? 19. To what are the great body of the people attached? 
What are they ? 20. What is the United States ? 21. What is said of 

the government ? 22. Of the legislative power ? House of Represent¬ 

atives ? Senate? 23. The judicial power? 24. Executive power? 
The subordinate officers ? What do they form ? 25. What may the 





104 


DESCRIPTIVE GEOCRAPHY 


26. This amount, in proportion to the vast territory over which it is 
spread, is small, compared with the dense population of some of the 
European states; but when it is considered that the inhabitants of the 
colonies 100 years ago numbered but 1,000,000, it presents the most 
striking instance of national growth to be found in the history of man¬ 
kind. 

-76- 

27. The United States were formerly colonies or provinces of Great 
Britain. In the year 1775 there were thirteen colonies, with a popula¬ 
tion of nearly three millions of people. At that time they took up arms 
for the purpose of separating themselves from the mother country. 


28. They were incited to this by the injustice of Great Britain, who 
taxed the people of the colonies without their consent, and passed various 
oppressive laws, to which they would not submit. 



Battle of Lexington. 


29. The first battle between the Colonists and the British troops, took 
place at Lexington, Massachusetts, April 19th, 1775. On the 4th of 
July, 1776, they declared themselves independent, under the title of the 
United States of America. 

30. The efforts of Great Britain to subdue the country were great, 
and the struggle which ensued was long and bloody; but animated by a 
love of liberty, and led by Washington and other gallant and patriotic 

inhabitants be estimated at ? The blacks ? Indians ? 26. How does 

it compare with the population of some European states ? 27. What 

were the United States formerly? When did they take up arms? 

28. Why were they incited to this ? 29. When and where did the 

first battle take place? What did they do on the 4th of July, 1776? 
30. What is said of Great Britain ? Of General Washington ? The 


















UNITED STATES 


105 



leaders, the people of the United States, after a war of eight years, 
drove the British armies from their shores, and established their inde¬ 
pendence. 


Resignation of General Washington. 

31. At the close of the Revolutionary War, the American Army, 
though suffering great privations, disbanded, without violence or disor¬ 
der; and the Commander in Chief, General Washington, resigned the 
almost absolute power he possessed to the authority that conferred it, 
thus presenting to the world the rare example of a great military chief 
descending voluntarily to the rank of a private citizen. 

32. The present Constitution of the United States was framed and 
adopted in 1789, and has since been amended. It secures to the people 
the grand principles of freedom, liberty of conscience in matters of reli¬ 
gion, liberty of the press, trial by jury, and the right of choosing and 
of being chosen to office. The Presidents of the United States since the 
adoption of the Constitution, are as follows: 

33. 1. George Washington, of Vir. from 1789 to 1797—8 years. 


2. John Adams, 

Mass. 

1797 

to 1801—4 

3. Thomas Jefferson, 

Vir. 

1801 

to 1809—8 

4. James Madison, 

Vir. 

1809 

to 1817—8 

5. James Monroe, 

Vir. 

1817 

to 1825—8 

6. John Quincy Adams, 

Mass. 

1825 

to 1829—4 

7. Andrew Jackson, 

Ten. 

1829 

to 1837—8 

8. Martin Van Buren, 

N. Y. 

1837 



people of the United Slates? 31. The American army? The com¬ 
mander in chief? 32. The Constitution ? What does it secure to the 
people ? 33. How many Presidents have there been ? Who were from 

Virginia? Massachusetts? Tennessee? New York ? How many 
years did each serve ? 
















106 


DESCRIPTIVE GEOGRAPHY 


-77- 

How are the United States bounded ? 

On the North? the South? the East? the West? 

What is the capital of the United States ? Wn. 

The capitals of countries, the scholar will perceive by the explanation 
on the map, are made by a large dot with eight small ones around it j 
and the capitals of states on Maps Nos. 4 and 5, are made by a small 
ring or circle with a dot in the middle of it. 

Which are the six Eastern States ? They are Me., N.-H., Vt., Ms., 

R. -I., Ct. 

Point out their capitals. 

\ Which are the four Middle States? They are N.*Y., N.*J., Pa., De. 
Point out their capitals. 

Which are the eight Southern States? They are Md., Va., N-C., 

S. -C., Ga., Aa., Mi., La. 

Point out their capitals. 

Which are the eight Western States? They are As., Te., Ky., Mi., 
Is., Ia.,Oo^Mn. 

Point out their capitals. 

Which are the Territories of the United States ? They are Fa., Wn., 
Ia., In., Mo., On. 

Point out the capitals of the three first. The others are not settled 
by white men. 

How many States are there ? 

How many Territories ? 

How many States and Territories are there altogether ? Besides 
these, the District of Columbia contains the seat of Government, so that 
the whole of the divisions of the United States are 33. 


Where is Lake Superior ? L. Huron ? L. Michigan* ? L. Eriet ? 
L. Ontario ? L. Champlain \ ? L. of the Woods ? 

Tell the length of each Lake. 

Which two are wholly in the United States ? Mn., Cn. 

Where is Manitouline Lake ? Moosehead L. ? Chesuncook L. ? 
Timiscouata L. ? L. Memphramagog § ? L. George ? L. Macaco ? 
L. Pontchartrain || ? L. Pepin ? Itasca L. ? The Mississippi flows from 
this Lake. Where is Rainy Lake ? Red L. ? St. Croix 1 L. ? Win¬ 
nebago L ? 


* Michigan, Mish'-e-gan. t Erie, E'-re. t Champlain, Sham'-plane. 
$ Memphramagog, Mem-fra-ma-gog'. || Pontchartrain, Pon-shar-trane'. 
V St. Croix, Saint Croy'. 









UNITED STATES 


107 


-78- 

Where is Passamaquoddy Bay ? Penobscot B. ? Casco B. ? New 
York B. ? Delaware B. ? Chesapeake B. ? Chatham B. ? Tampa B. ? 
Apalachee* B. ? Pensacola B. ? Mobile tB.? Black B.? Barataria B. ? 
On the Great Lakes, where is Saginaw B. ? Thunder B. ? Green B. ? 
Where is Long Island Sound ? Albemarle S. ? Pamlico S. ? 

How many miles long are each of these ? also Chesapeake Bay ?— 
See Map No. 7. 


Where is the Mississippi River ? 

Where does it rise ? Where does it empty ? 

How many miles long is it ? 

What are its chief tributaries and their lengths ? 

Where is the Missouri River? Yellow Stone R. ? Big Horn R. ? 
Platte t R. ? KanzasR. ? Arkansas R.? Canadian R. ? Red R. ? 
Osage R. ? Des Moines R. ? St. Peter’s R. ? Wisconsin R. ? Rock R. ? 
Illinois § R. ? 

Where is the Wabash R. ? Maumee R. ? Ohio R. ? Alleghany R. ? 
Monongahela R. ? Kanawha R. ? Cumberland R. ? Tennessee R. ? 
White R. ? Washita || R. ? Yazoo R. ? 

Where is the Pearl R. ? Tombigby R. ? Alabama R. ? Chatta- 
hoocheeR.? St. John’s R.? Fa. — Alatamaha R, ? Savannah R. ? 
Santee R. ? Great Pedee R. ? C. Fear R. ? NeuselT R. ? Tar R. ? 
Roanoke R. ? James R. ? Potomac R. ? Susquehanna R. ? Delaware 
R. ? Hudson R. ? Mohawk R. ? 

Where is the St. Lawrence R. ? Connecticut R. ? Merrimack R. ? 
Kennebeck R. ? Penobscot R. ? St. John’s R. ? Me. 

Where is the Oregon or Columbia R.? Lewis R. ? Clark’s R. ? 
Frazer's R. ? Clamet R. ? Tell how long each of these rivers is. 


Where is Cape Cod ? C. Malabar ? C. Charles ? C. Henry ? C. 
Hatteras ? C. Fear ? C. Lookout ? C. Cannaveral ? C. Sable ? C. 
Romans ? C. St. Bias ? ** 


Where is Mt. Desert Island ? Nantucket I. ? Martha’s Vineyard ? 
Long I. ? Florida Reefs ? These are low sandy islands. 

Where are the Tortugas Islands ? Manitouline tt Isles ? Grand I.? 
I. Roy ale? The Apostles ? The four last are in the Great Lakes. 
Where is Vancouver’s Island ? How long is it ? 


* Apalachee, Ap-a-lash-e'. t Mobile, Mo-beel'. t Platte, Plat. 

^ Illinois, Iil-e-noy'. || Washita, Wash-e-taw'. IF Neuse, Nuso. 

** St.Bias, Saint Blaw'. ft Manitovline, Man-e-tu'-lin. 









108 


DESCRIPTIVE GEOGRAPHY 


- 79 - 

Where is Mt. Rainier * ? Mt. Hood? Mt. Jefferson ? Mt. Olympus t? 
How high arc the two first ? 

Where are the Rocky Mts. ? IIow long are they ? 

Where is Long’s Peak? James’s Peak? How high are they ? 
Where are the Ozark Mts., and what is their height ? 

Where arc the Cumberland Mts. ? Alleghany Mts. ? Their length 
and height ? 

Where is the Blue Ridge ? Blue Mts. ? Green Mts. ? White Mts. ? 
Black Hills ? Where is Black Mt. ? &c. &c. ? 

The three Bates ? The three Paps ? The last are said by some to 
be the highest mountains in the United States; but this is uncertain 
Long’s Peak is the highest known. 


What nine Cities in the United States number 30,000 inhabitants and 
upwards ? Bn., N.-Y., Ay., Pa., Be., Pg., Ci., Cn., N.-Os. 

What seven Cities number from 20,000 to 30,000 ? LI., Pe., Bo., Wn., 
Nk., Le., Rd. 

What seventeen cities have from 10,000 to 20,000 ? Br., Pd., Sm., Hd., 
N.-Hn., Ty., Ua., Rr., Lr., Wn., Wg., Dt., S.-Ls., Nk., Pg., Sh., Me. 


How far is it from New Jersey to Portugal ? 

From New Jersey to the Azores ? 

From Chesapeake Bay to Portugal ? 

From Cape Hatteras to the Strait of Gibraltar ? 

From Charleston to Madeira ? From Savannah to Bermuda ? 
From Florida to Morocco ? From Florida to the Canary Islands ? 
How long and wide is the Atlantic Ocean ? 

The Gulf of Mexico ? the Pacific Ocean ?—See Map No. 5. 


Map of the Learner's own State .—In what Slate do you live ? Is it 
one of the Eastern, Middle, Southern, or Western States ? How is your 
State bounded ? What rivers has it ? Tell what they are. Does it 
contain any mountains ? If so, what are they called? Is your state 
on the sea-coast, or in the interior, at a distance from it ? Does it con¬ 
tain any Bays, Sounds, Islands, or Capes ? What is the Capital of your 
State ? What is the Capital of a State ? 269, page 40. In what 

county do you live ? Point it out on the map. How is it bounded ? 
How long and wide is it? You can tell this by the scale of miles. 
What is a County ? 266. 


* Rainier, Ray-neer'. 


t Olympus, Ol-imp'-us. 













EASTERN STATES. 


109 


EASTERN STATES. 



-80- 

1. The Eastern or New England States, comprise those 
situated to the east of the Hudson river. They are Maine, 
New Hampshire, Vermont, Massachusetts, Rhode Island and 
Connecticut. 

2. The surface of New England is greatly varied; much 
of the soil is good, yet, in general, it requires diligent cultiva¬ 
tion, and compels the farmer to use considerable industry to 
procure good crops. 

3. Horses, cattle, sheep, and hogs, are reared in great 
numbers; and grass, Indian corn, wheat, rye, oats, barley, 
flax, and hemp, are extensively cultivated. The principal 
fruits are apples, pears, peaches, plums, &c. 

4. The manufactures of the Eastern States are very ex¬ 
tensive, and embrace a great variety of articles. The cotton 
and woollen factories employ numerous individuals, and a 


New England. Q. — 1. Which are the New England states? 2. 
What is said of the surface and soil ? What does it require ? 
3. What are reared in great numbers ? What is extensively cultivated ? 
Which are the principal fruits ? 4, What is said of the manufactures ? 
































110 


DESCRIPTIVE GEOGRAPHY. 


large amount of capital. Since the manufacturing system 
has prevailed, this part of the United States has increased 
rapidly in population and wealth. 

5. The New Englanders are extensively engaged in com¬ 
merce, and in the cod, mackerel, and whale fisheries, which 
train vast numbers of the most experienced and intrepid sea¬ 
men in the world. 

6. The inhabitants of the Eastern States are almost exclu¬ 
sively of unmixed English origin, and from the earliest settle- ! 
ment of their country, have been used to habits of industry, 
economy, and enterprise. 

7. They have always been a religious people. Among them the 
Sabbath is strictly observed, and all classes generally attend public wor¬ 
ship. It is considered disreputable for a man to have no religious 
belief; and there are few individuals who are not connected with some 
religious society. 

8. Education is more general than in any other part of the world; 
and large funds have been set apart by the different State Legislatures 
for the support of common schools. It is- rare to find in any part of 
the Eastern States, persons of mature age, who are ignorant of reading, 
writing, and arithmetic. 

- 81 - 

9. Institutions of learning were established, at an early period, by tho 
first settlers of New England ; some of which, at the present day, aro 
among the most respectable and efficient in the Union. Many of the 
most distinguished men in the United States have been educated at 
Harvard and Yale Colleges. 

10. The people of New England were, at an early period, noted for 
their republican principles, and were the first to resist the tyranny of i 
the British Government. The destruction of the tea in Boston harbour, j 
and the battles of Lexington and Bunker’s Hill, were among the first 
events that led to the independence of the United States. 


5. What are the New Englanders engaged in ? 6. What are the in- i 

habitants? To what have they been trained? 7. What have the } 
inhabitants always been ? What do all classes generally attend ? What 
is considered disreputable ? 8. What is said of public instruction ? 

What is rare to find ? 

9. What was established at an early period ? What are they at 
the present day ? 10. For what were they noted ? What were they 

the first to resist ? What were the first events that led to the inde¬ 
pendence of the United States ? 










EASTERN STATES 


111 



Harvard University. 


Map No. 6. — Which are the New England States? Me., N-H., Vt., 

Ms., R.-I., Ct.—Which extends farthest north and east? Me._ 

Which farthest south and west ? Ct. — Which is the largest state? 
Me. — The second in extent ? Vt. — Third ? N.-H. —Fourth ? Ms. 

— Fifth ? Ct. — Smallest ? R.-I. — These states extend from lati¬ 

tude 41 degrees to 48. — How many degrees of latitude then do they 
include ? They extend east and west from 3| degrees, to 10 east longi¬ 
tude from Washington.— How many degrees then of longitude do 
they include ? Which is the largest river in New England ? Ct. — 
The next ? Pt.—What river is partly in Maine and partly in New- 
Brunswick ? S.-Js.—How long are these rivers? Which is the 
largest lake wholly in the Eastern States ? Md. — How long is it ? 

— What lake is partly in New England and partly in the state lying 

west of it ? Cn. — How long is this lake ? Lake Champlain is navi¬ 
gable for vessels of large burthen. During the war of the Revolution, 
and that of 1812, naval battles were fought upon it. Commodore 
M’Donough’s victory, in which the whole British fleet was captured, 
took place September 11th, 1814. Which is the highest mountain in 
New England ? Wn. — Which is the next highest ? Kn.— The next ? 
Md. — How high are each of these mountains ? — Which are the 
three principal Islands in New England ? M.-Dt., Nt., M.-Vd. —Which 
state has the greatest extent of sea-coast ? Me. —Which has the 
smallest ? N.-H. — Which has no sea-coast ? Vt. —How many miles 

is it from Maine to Nova Scotia ? — To Spain ? — To Circassia ? — 
From Massachusetts to Italy?—To Turkey? — From Long Island 
to Greece ? 

























112 


DESCRIPTIVE GEOGRAPHY. 


— 82 - 

MAINE. 



Lumber Yard, &,c. 


1. Maine comprises about one-half of the area of New 
England. Before the year 1820, it formed a part of the State 
of Massachusetts, under the title of the District of Maine. 

2. The soil is various; much of it is fertile, but in general 
it is better adapted for grazing than tillage. One of the most 
important products is white pine timber, of which there is cut 
and sawed to the amount of ten millions of dollars annually. 

3. The coast is remarkably indented with bays and har¬ 
bours, affording great facilities for commerce and the fisheries, 
which the inhabitants have not failed to improve. 

4. They are also largely engaged in ship-building and 
navigation, and export vast quantities of lumber, fish, beef, 
pork, grain, &c.; together with a considerable amount of ice, 
to the West Indies and the Southern States. 

5. About one-third part of Maine is claimed by Great Brit¬ 
ain, which power, by a forced and arbitrary construction of the 
treaty of 1783, has unjustly assumed a control over the northern 

Maine. Q. — 1. What does Maine comprise ? What did it form a part 
of before 1820? 2. What is said of the soil? 3. Of the coast? 
4. What are the exports ? 5. What power claims one-third of Maine ? 














113 


MAINE, NEW HAMPSHIRE. 

part of the state, and endeavoured to deprive the common¬ 
wealth of a territory to which it has the most undoubted and 
undeniable right. 

6. Augusta, the capital, is on the Kennebeck river, 50 miles from its 
mouth : it contains a handsome State House, of granite, and a United 
States’ Arsenal. Portland is the largest and most important town in 
the state; it is well laid out, and handsomely built, and has an extensive 
foreign and coasting trade. 

7. Bangor, on the Penobscot river, has trebled its population since 
1830. From 300 to 400 million feet of lumber are said to be annually 
exported from this place. Bath is noted for its ship-building, and 
Thomastown for its exports of lime, marble, and granite. Eastport, 
Belfast, Brunswick, Hallowell, Saco,* and York, are all flourishing towns. 


Map No. 6. — What country bounds Maine on the east ? N.-Bk. — 
On the west ? L. Ca. and N. H. — What ocean on the soujji ? Ac. — 
Which are the five principal rivers that flow into the Atlantic Ocean ? 
S.-Cx., Pt., Kk., An., So. How long are they ? — What river rises in 
the centre of Maine and flows into New Brunswick ? S.-Js. How long 
is it ? — Which are the three principal Lakes ? Md., Ck., Gd. How 
long are the two first ? — The principal mountain, and its height ? Kn. 

— The largest island ? M.-Dt. — Which is the most eastern county ? 
Wn. — The most western ? Od. — The most southern ? Yk. — In what 
county, and on what river, is the capital situated ? Kk., Kk. — Which 
are the four largest towns and their population ? Pd., Br., Aa., Tn. 

— What county has three county towns? Ln. — What two have 
two county towns each ? Hk., Yk. — What boundary do you observe 
in the middle of the state ? What boundary separates the state from 
Lower Canada. 

-83- 

NEW HAMPSHIRE. 

1. New Hampshire is often called the Switzerland of 

i America, on account of its beautiful and varied scenery, its 
i mountains, lakes, rivers, cascades, &c. It is also called the 
$ granite state, from the great quantities of that rock found 
f in it. 

2. The sea-coast of New Hampshire is only 18 miles in 


What has Great Britain endeavoured to do ? 6. What is said of Au¬ 
gusta ? Of Portland ? 7. Of Bangor ? and the other towns ? 

New Hampshire. Q. — 1. What is New Hampshire often called ? 
Why ? What is it also called ? Why ? 2. What is said of the sea 


8 


* Saco, Saw'-co. 











114 DESCRIPTIVE GEOGRAPHY. 


extent, and it has but a small share of commerce; but it is 
distinguished for its productive agriculture and flourishing 
manufactures. 

3. The country on the coast is level; in the interior, the 
surface is greatly diversified by hills and valleys, and moun¬ 
tains of considerable height. 


White Mountains. 


coast ? Commerce ? Agriculture and manufactures ? 3. What is 

said of the country ? The White Mountains ? How are they distin¬ 
guished? 4. What causes them to be often visited? 5. Describe 
Concord ? Portsmouth ? 6. Where is Dartmouth College ? What is 

said of Dover and other towns ? 


Among these are the White Mountains, the most elevated 
of any in New England. They are distinguished by the 
names of Washington, Franklin, Adams, Jefferson, Madison, 
Monroe, &c. 

4. The White Mountains are covered with snow for ten months in 
the year, and are seen from a great distance at sea. The wild and 
sublime character of the scenery, causes them to be often visited by 
numerous travellers. 

5. Concord, the capital of the state, is a pleasant and flourishing 
town, and contains the State House, State Prison, and other buildings. 

Portsmouth is the only sea-port, and the largest town in the state. 
It has a fine harbour, and contains a United States’ Navy-Yard. 

6. At Hanover, is Dartmouth college, a respectable and flourishing 
institution. Dover, Somersworth, New Market, Exeter, and Nashua, 
















VERMONT 


115 


are all largely engaged in manufactures. Haverhill, Lancaster, Am- 
herst, and Keene, are thriving towns. 


Map No. 6. —What river separates New Hampshire-from Vermont? 
( — How long is it ? — What river runs through the centre of the 

state? Mk.— How long is it?—-What lake flows into it? We._ 

How long is it ? — What mountains are in Coos country ? We._ 

Which is the principal? Wn. — How high is it?—Which is the 
principal town and its population ? Ph. — The Capital and its popula¬ 
tion ? Cd. — On what river is Concord ? Mk. — Which is the most 
northern county? Cs. — The three most southern counties? Ce., 
Hh., Rm.— In what county is the Capital? Mk. — What countv 
contains four county towns? Sd. (County towns are distinguished 
by a ring with a dot in it.) 


-84- 

VERMONT. 



Raft on Lake Champlain. 


1. Vermont is a mountainous but healthful and productive 
state. The Green Mountains, from which it derives its name, 
extend through it from North to South, dividing it into nearly 
two equal sections. 

2. The soil is fertile, and all kinds of grain, suited to the 
climate, are produced in abundance. Cattle of various kinds 


Vermont. Q. — 1. What is Vermont ? What is said of the Green 





































* 

116 DESCRIPTIVE GEOGRAPHY. 

are raised with great facility ; the beef, butter, and cheese* 
are well known for their excellence, and wool is an important 
product. 

3. This state is entirely in the interior; yet, by Lake Cham¬ 
plain, and the Canal of the same name, steam-boats and 
other vessels have brought its territory into connection with 
the sea. 

4. Part of the trade of Vermont goes by the canal to Albany, and 
part down Lake Champlain to Montreal. Immense rafts of timber, 
containing houses for lodging the crews, are often seen sailing up the 
lake towards the canal, on their way to Albany and the towns on the 
Hudson. 

5. The territory forming this state was first explored by the French 
from Canada, but was settled by the English more than a hundred years 
ago. During the revolutionary war, Vermont acted a conspicuous part, 
and the name of Green Mountain Boys, acquired by the bravery of her 
soldiers, has ever been regarded as a title of renown. 

6. Montpelier, the capital of the state, is a neat little town on the 
Onion river. Burlington is the largest place in the state, and the most 
commercial town on Lake Champlain. It contains the University of 
Vermont. 

r 

7. Bennington is celebrated for the victory obtained by General 
Stark, in 1777, over a detachment of Hessians belonging to Burgoyne’s 
army. 

8. Middleburg and Rutland, on Otter creek, and Brattleboro’, Nor¬ 
wich, and Windsor, on the Connecticut river, are small but flourishing 
towns; the latter contains the Norwich University, a respectable liter¬ 
ary and scientific institution. 


Map No. 6.—What river bounds Vermont on the east? Ct. — What 
state does it separate from Vermont? N.-H. — What Lake bounds 
Vermont on the west? Cn. — What state does it separate from Ver¬ 
mont? N.-Y. — What country lies north of Vermont ? Ca.—What 
state lies south ? Ms. — What four streams flow into Lake Champlain? 
Me., L-Me., On., Or.— What two Islands are in Lake Champlain ? 
N.-Ho., S.-Ho. — These, with a small peninsula lying north of them, 
form the county of Grand Isle.— What Lake is partly in this stateyand 
partly in Canada ? Mg. — What mountains extend through the state ? 
Gn. — Which is the highest peak? Md. — How high is it? —What 
other peaks ? C.-Rp., Kn. — When was the battle of Bennington 

fought ? 


Mountains ? 2. Of the soil ? Cattle, &c. ? 3. What is said of the 
State ? 4. Of the trade ? Of the rafts on Lake Champlain ? 5. The 

Revolutionary war ? 6. Describe Montpelier. 7. Bennington. 8. And 

other towns. 




MASSACHUSETTS. 


117 


85 



British troops evacuating Boston. 

MASSACHUSETTS. 


1. Massachusetts is the oldest and most important of the 
New England States. It is the most thickly settled section 
of the Union, and is distinguished for the enterprise and pub¬ 
lic spirit of its citizens. 

2. The agriculture is conducted with a superior degree of 
skill and intelligence ,* but the commerce, manufactures, and 
the fisheries, are the great objects of,pursuit. The shipping 
amounts to nearly one-third of the whole owned in the United 
States. 

3. The literary, religious, and charitable institutions of 
Massachusetts, are highly important, and are in a flourishing 
condition. Harvard University at Cambridge is the oldest and 
best endowed literary establishment in the Union. Williams 
College at Williamstown, and Amherst College at Amherst, 
are also respectable institutions. 


Massachusetts. Q. — 1. What is Massachusetts? For what is it 
distinguished ? 2. What is said of the agriculture ? Commerce ? 

Manufactures and the fisheries ? The shipping ? 3. What is said of 

literary and other institutions ? What of Harvard University ? 

























DESCRIPTIVE GEOGRAPHY 


118 

4. This State contains a number of flourishing towns and 
villages, many of which are distinguished for the neatness of 
their buildings, and the elegance of their churches and meet¬ 
ing-houses. 

5. Boston, the Capital of the State, is also considered the literary and 
commercial metropolis of New England. Its shipping amounts to 
more than one-eighth of the whole tonnage of the Union, and its trade 
extends to all parts of the world. This city is noted for the number 
and elegance of its public buildings, among which are the State House, 
the New Market House, Tremont House, the Hospital, &c. 

6. The American Revolution commenced in Boston. Its port was 
closed in 1774, by order of the British Government, and a garrison 
placed there to control the town. It was in. consequence besieged by 
the American Army under General Washington, who compelled the 

it. 

7. Charleston, which is connected 
with Boston by three bridges, stands 
on a lofty peninsula, the centre of 
which is occupied by Bunker Hill, 
celebrated for the battle fought on it 
during the revolutionary war. The 
Bunker Hill Monument, now building 
of granite, is to be 220 feet high from 
its base, which is fifty feet square. 
Cambridge, united to Boston by two 
bridges, contains Harvard University. 

8. Salem is a flourishing and 
wealthy place: it is the second in Mas¬ 
sachusetts for its commerce. Newbury - 
port has considerable trade. Beverly, 
Gloucester,and Marblehead, are large¬ 
ly engaged in the cod fisheries, and 
Nantucket and New Bedford carry on 
the whale-fishing to a greater extent 

Bunker Hill Monument. than any other place in the world. 

9. Lowell, on the Merrimack river, is famous for its cotton and 
woollen mills, and its great extent of water-power. Taunton and Fall 
River are considerable manufacturing towns. Lynn is noted for the 
vast amount of boots and shoes made in it, and Lexington for being the 
place where the first battle was fought during the revolutionary war. 


British troops to 



4. What does this state contain ? 5. Describe Boston. Its shipping. 

Trade. Buildings, Sec. 6. What is said of the American revolution ? 
What did the British Government do ? What did the American army 
do? 7. Describe Charleston, «fec. The Bunker Hill Monument. 8. De¬ 
scribe Salem, Newbury port, Nantucket, and New Bedford. 9. Describe 


























RHODE ISLAND. 119 

10. At Plymouth the first settlers or pilgrims landed in the year 
1620. The anniversary of that event is still observed. 

* Worcester, Springfield, Northampton, and Pittsfield, are all thriving * 
and important towns. 

- 86 - 

Map No. 6.—What state bounds Massachusetts on the north ? N.-H. 

— On the south ? R.-I., CL — On the west ? N.-Y. — What ocean 

on the east and south ? Ac. — What three mountains are in Massa¬ 
chusetts ? Wt., He., Tm. — The range of mountains west of the Con¬ 
necticut river, is called the Housatonick Mts.: it is a continuation of 
the Green Mountains- Which are the principal rivers? Ct., Mk.— 
How long are they? Which are the other rivers? Be., Ts., Hk. 
Their lengths?—What capes are on the coast ? An., Cd., Mr. — What 
bays ? Ms., C.-Cd., Bs. — What islands ? Nt., M.-Vd. — What coun¬ 
ties do these islands form? NL, Ds. — Which is the most northern 
county ? Ex. — The most southern ? Nt. — The most eastern ? Be. 

— The most western ? Be. — What is the capital ? Bn. — Its popu¬ 
lation ? In what county is it ? A., Suffolk county. — What four 

places have each a population of upwards of 10,000 ? LI., Sm., N.-Bd., 

ClL 

Tell by the Scale what capital lies about 90 miles from Boston ? Hd. 
—What county town in Maine lies a few miles farther ? Pd. — This is 
the most important place in the state, and was formerly the capital. 
What county towns in Connecticut are about the same distance from 
Boston as Portland? Mn., Him, N-Ln. — What island belonging to 
Rhode Island is not quite so far ? Bk. — What island in Massachu¬ 
setts is about the same distance ? NL — What is the name of the 
county and county town ? NL — What does this island carry on to a 
great extent ? par. 8. — How far is Providence from Boston ? Wor¬ 
cester ? Amherst ? Exeter ? How far is Augusta ? Montpelier ? Of 
what states are the two last the capitals ? 

-87- 

RHODE ISLAND. 

1. Rhode Island is the smallest state in the Union, but is 
pleasantly situated, and possesses numerous facilities for com¬ 
merce and manufactures. 


Lowell, Tajjnton, &c. 10. Plymouth and the other towns. 

Rhode Island. Q. — 1. What is Rhode Island? What does it pos- 


* Worcester, Wurs'-ter. 








120 


DESCRIPTIVE GEOGRAPHY 


2. The face of the country is mostly level, except in the 
north-west, which is hilly and rocky. Part of the state has 
a thin and poor soil, but the islands bordering on the Narra- 
ganset Bay are of great fertility, and are celebrated for their 
fine cattle. 

3. This state is extensively engaged in the cotton manu¬ 
facture, and took the lead in that branch of industry. The 
first cotton-mill erected in the United States was built here. 

4. Rhode Island has no Constitution, and differs in this respect from 
the other states. She is governed by the charter of Charles II., granted 
in 1683, the provisions of which are so liberal, that little inconvenience 
has been hitherto experienced from the want of a constitution. 

5. Providence is the second city in New England in population, 
wealth, and commerce. It contains the State House, Brown University, 
the Arcade, and a considerable number of churches. Its manufactures 
are various and important. 

6. Newport is noted for the beauty of its situation and salubrious air. 
Its harbour is one of the finest in the United States. Rhode Island, on 
which it is situated, has, from its beauty and fertility, been called the 
Eden of America. 

7. Bristol is a handsome and flourishing town: its foreign and coast¬ 
ing trade is considerable. The villages of Pawtucket, Slatersville, and 
Woonsocket, are noted for their manufactures ; the first is situated on 
both sides of the Pawtucket or Black stone river, and is partly in this 
state, and partly in Massachusetts. The population is about 6,000. 

Map No. 6. — What state bounds Rhode Island on the north and 
east ? Ms. — The west ? Ct. — What ocean on the south ? Ac. — What 
is the principal bay? Nt. — Which are the two principal islands? 
R.-Id., Bk. — What county do they belong to? Nt.— Which are the 
capitals ? Pe., Nt. Their population ? — In what county is Providence ? 
Pe. — In which is Newport ? Nt. 

- 88 - 

CONNECTICUT. 

1. Connecticut is noted for the excellence of its literary 
institutions, and for the intelligence, enterprise, and good 
morals of the people. 

2. The state has a varied surface of hill and dale, but is 

sess ? 2. What is said of the country ? Of the sail, &c. ? 3. What is 

this state engaged in ? 4. How is it governed ? What has been hith¬ 
erto experienced? 5. Describe Providence. 6. Newport. 7. Bristol. 
Pawtucket, &c. 

Connecticut. Q.— 1. For what is Connecticut noted? 2. What ia 






CONNECTICUT 


121 



School-House. Emigrants to the West. 

seldom mountainous. The climate is healthful, and the soil 
generally good, especially in the valley of the Connecticut 
river. 

3. The chief products are the grains, &c. common to New 
England: orchards are numerous; cider is produced in con¬ 
siderable quantities ; and butter and cheese are made annually 
to a great amount. 

4. The manufactures of Connecticut are extensive and va¬ 
rious. The principal articles are cotton and woollen goods, 
clocks, tin-ware, silk goods, carriages, &c. The foreign trade 
is chiefly with the West Indies, but is less extensive than that 
along the coast. 

5. The provision made for the public education of the peo¬ 
ple in this state, is more liberal than in any other part of the 
world. The interest of the school fund affords instruction to 
nearly ninety thousand children. 

6. Perhaps no Atlantic state has sent so large a number of active and 
industrious settlers to the western country as Connecticut; and her emi¬ 
grants, wherever found, are among the most enterprising and industrious 
part of the population. 

said of the surface? Of the climate and soil ? 3. What are the chief 

products ? What is said of orchards, &c. ? 4. Of the manufactures ? 
The principal articles? The foreign trade? 5. Public education? 
What does the interest of the school fund afford? 6. What is said of 










122 


DESCRIPTIVE GEOGRAPHY 


7. The seat of government is divided between New Haven and Hart¬ 
ford. The former is situated at the bottom of a small bay opening into 
Long Island Sound. It is built in squares, with straight and wide 
streets, and its regularity and neatness - are much admired. 

8. Yale College was founded in this city in 1701. Besides the col¬ 
lege buildings, there are several churches and other public edifices that 
excite general attention. The boarding-schools and seminaries for 
youth of both sexes, are highly respectable and well conducted. 

9. Hartford is a handsome and flourishing city. During a few years 
past, it has rapidly increased in commerce, population and wealth. It 
is the scat of Washington College, and of the Asylum for the Deaf and 
Dumb, the first institution of the kind established in the United States: 
it has about 140 pupils, receiving instruction in the various branches 
of learning, and acquiring a knowledge of the useful arts. 

10. New London and Stonington employ a number of vessels in the 
whale and seal fishery. Middletown and Norwich are extensively en¬ 
gaged in manufactures. Lichfield was long noted for its law-school, 
which is now discontinued ; Bristol for its manufactures of clocks, and 
Collinsville for those of axes. Saybrook, at the mouth of the Connec¬ 
ticut river, was the first place in this state occupied by the English. 

- 89 - 

Map No. 6. — What state bounds Connecticut on the north? Ms. 
— On the east? R.-I. —West? N.-Y. —South? L.-I. Sd.—How 
long is Long Island Sound ? To what state does Long Island belong ? 
N.-Y. — What three rivers flow into the Sound ? Ct., Ts., Hk. The 
length of each river ? How many miles is the Connecticut navigable ? 
For what kind of vessels ? The Housatonick ? What is the population 
of New Haven ? Of Hartford ? Which are the four next largest towns, 
and their population ? Nh., N.-Ld., Sk., Ld. — Which counties have 
each two county towns? Fd., Mx. N.-Ld. 

How many miles is it by the scale from New Haven to Hartford ? 
What county town is about the same distance? Ld. — The city of 
New York, Northampton on the Connecticut river, and Block Island, 
are all about the same distance from New Haven. How many miles is 
it ? Hartford is nearly half way between New York and Boston. How 
many miles is it from each ? New Haven is about the same distance 
from Newport, Providence, and Worcester. How many miles is it? 
Hartford is situated very nearly half way between the eastern and 
western extremities of the state. How many miles is it from each ? 
Hartford is about the same distance from Providence and Poughkeep¬ 
sie. How many miles is it from each? How far is New Haven from 
the north line of the state ? From the north-east corner of the state ? 
From the north-west corner ? 


settlers to the western country? Of emigrants? 7. Of the seat of go 
vernment ? Describe New Haven. 8. Yale College, &c. 9. Hartford. 
10. Describe New London. Stonington. Norwich, and the other towns. 





MIDDLE STATES. 


123 



MIDDLE STATES. 

1. The Middle States comprise New York, New Jersey, 
Pennsylvania, and Delaware. They occupy one of the finest 
portions of the Union, and are distinguished for their rapid 
growth in prosperity and wealth, and for the enterprise and 
industry of their inhabitants. 

2. These states exhibit some of the most mountainous 
tracts in the Union. The Allegheny, the Blue Mountains, 
and other ranges, stretch through the country from south¬ 
west to north-east. They are almost universally covered 
with forests, and contain many wild solitudes among them 
that are seldom or never visited by man. 

3. The climate is generally more mild than in the New 
England States, except in the northern parts of New York, 
where the cold of winter is equally severe. 

4. A great^ portion of the soil of the Middle States is fertile, 
well cultivated, and produces large crops of excellent wheat, 


Middle States. Q. — 1. What do the Middle States comprise ? What 
do they occupy ? For what are the}’’ distinguished ? 2. What do 

these states exhibit? With what are they covered? 3. What is said 
















DESCRIPTIVE GEOGRAPHY. 


124 

Indian corn, rye, oats, and barley. The fruits are chiefly 
apples, pears, peaches, and plums. 

5. The most useful minerals, coal, iron, salt, and lime, 
abound to a great extent in various parts of the country; and 
mining is actively pursued, especially in the coal regions of 
Pennsylvania. 

6. The commerce of the Middle States is extensive, and is 
carried on chiefly through the cities of New York and Phila¬ 
delphia. The internal trade is greatly facilitated by the 
numerous canals and rail-roads which extend through the 
different parts of the country. 

7. The manufactures are important and various; a vast 
amount of capital and labour is employed in their fabrication, 
and thousands of both sexes are supported by them. 

8. In the Middle States common-school education is not so 
general as in most parts of New England, except in the state 
of New York, where great attention has been paid to the 
subject. 

9. In Pennsylvania a system has been lately adopted that will afford 
the means of education to all classes of the people ; but in New Jersey 
and Delaware, the plans pursued for that purpose have not as yet proved 
very efficient. 

- 91 - 

10. The great body of the people in the Middle States are of British 
descent; but in some parts of Pennsylvania there are many Germans, 
who speak only their own language, and are often ignorant of the 
English tongue. In New York and New Jersey, there are a number 
of the descendants of the original Dutch settlers of New York, and m 
some sections that language is partially spoken. 

11. At the close of the revolutionary war, so many emigrants from 
the eastern states settled in New York, that a majority of the present 
population of that state are natives of New England, or their descend¬ 
ants. These, by their industrious habits, their enterprise and general 
intelligence, have contributed much to the prosperity of that section of 
the Union. 


of the climate ? 4. Of the soil ? The crops ? 5. What is said of the 

minerals? Of mining? 6. The commerce? The internal trade? 
7. The manufactures ? 8. Of common-school education ? In New 
York ? 9. In Pennsylvania ? In New Jersey and Delaware ? 

10. Of what descent are the great body of the people? What of the 
Germans ? Dutch ? 11. Of emigrants from the New England states ? 

What have they contributed ? 





NEW YORK 



125 


Map No. 7. — Which is the largest of the Middle States? N.-Y.— 
The second in extent ? Pa. — Third ? N-J. — Fourth ? De. — 
Which extends farthest north and east ? N.-Y. — South ? De. — West ? 
Pa. — Which state has the greatest extent of sea-coast? N.-Y.— 
Which has no sea-coast ? Pa. — The Middle States extend from latitude 
38& to 45 degrees. How many degrees of latitude, then, do they in¬ 
clude? They extend from longitude 5 degrees east of Washington, 
to about west ? — How many degrees of longitude do they include ? 

— Which is the largest Island belonging to the Middle States ? Lg. 

— What is its length ? — The next in size ? Sn. — This Island forms 

Richmond county, in New York. — Which are the principal mountains ? 
Ay., Be., Cl., Mn. — Which is the highest mountain? My. — How 
high is it? — Which are the chief rivers that flow into the Ocean? 
Hn., De., Sa. — Which two form the Ohio? Ay., Ma.— How long 
are all these rivers ? — Which state has the greatest extent of lake- 
coast ? N.-Y. — The next ? Pa. — How long is each of these lakes ? 

•— For what are they navigable? — How far is it from New York to 
Bristol, England ? — From New Jersey to Italy ? — From Delaware to 
Turkey ? — From Philadelphia to Norfolk ? 


View of the lower part of the City of New York. 

1. New York is the most flourishing, wealthy, arid popu¬ 
lous state in the Union. It exhibits one of those amazing ex¬ 
amples of growth and prosperity that are no where seen on 
the globe beyond our own borders. 

New-York. Q. — 1. What is New York? What does it exhibit? 


NEW YORK. 



















126 


DESCRIPTIVE GEOGRAPHY. 


2. The northern portion of the state is, in part, mountain¬ 
ous, and but thinly settled; the eastern is hilly, and tolerably 
productive; while the western part is level, remarkably fer¬ 
tile, and increasing rapidly in population. 

3. The agriculture is well conducted. Wheat is the chief 
staple; but corn, rye, and other grains, are extensively culti¬ 
vated. The flour is of excellent quality ; and, with other pro¬ 
visions, is largely exported. 

4. The manufactures are extensive and flourishing, and the 
commerce of the state is on a great scale. Near three-fifths 
of the imports, and more than one-fourth of the exports of the 
Union, are made by New York alone. 

5. Iron ore is found in great abundance, and lead, gypsum, 
and limestone, also abound. There are numerous and im¬ 
portant salt springs at various places. The principal are at 
Salina and Syracuse, where more than two million bushels of 
salt are made annually. 

6. The mineral springs of Ballston and Saratoga are well 
known throughout the Union for their medicinal qualities, and 
are much visited from all quarters. The waters are largely 
exported to the other states, and even to foreign countries. 

7. This state shares with Upper Canada the Falls of Niagara, one of 
the greatest wonders of the western continent. The widest and most 
imposing part of this cataract is on the Canadian side; while that on 
the New York side, though narrower, is several feet higher than the 
other. 

8. New York is distinguished for its magnificent public 
works, of which the Erie, or Great Western Canal, is the 
largest in the state, and one of the principal works of the 
kind in the world. 

9. The success attending its completion and use, fully convinced the 
people of the United States of the advantages of works of internal im¬ 
provement. There are, likewise, a number of other canals, and also 
rail-roads, in successful operation, besides some that are partially com¬ 
pleted. 


2. What is said of the northern part? Eastern ? Western ? 3. The agri¬ 
culture ? 4. Manufactures ? Imports ? Exports ? 5. Iron ore, &c. ? 

Salt springs ? How much salt is made annually ? 6. What is said of 

the mineral springs ? 7. Of the Falls of Niagara ? 8. How is New- 

York distinguished ? What is said of the Erie canal? 9. Of other 
canals and rail-roads ? 



NEW YORK 

- 93 - 


127 


10. Very ample provision has been made for popular edu¬ 
cation in this state ; and there is no country in the world 
where the great body of the people have the means of being 
so generally instructed as in New York. More than 500,000 
children are taught annually in the common schools; and 
there are, also, 200 academies, 5 colleges and a university. 

11. The people of New York, during the revolutionary war, strenu¬ 
ously opposed the arbitrary measures of the British government. The 
state, for the greater part of that gloomy period, was the theatre of 
uctive hostilities, and the surrender of General Burgoyne and his army, 
with other memorable events, took place within its limits. 

12. The city of New York is situated on the southern end of Man¬ 
hattan island, at the junction of the Hudson and East rivers. It is the 
great commercial emporium of America; and is, next to London, the 
greatest in the world. Its progress in population has never been sur¬ 
passed. Since 1796, it has, including Brooklyn, increased nearly ten-fold. 

13. The foreign, coasting, and inland trade of this city is immense : 
regular packets are constantly trading with various ports in Europe, the 
West Indies, South America, and all the important sea-ports in the 
United States. 

The successful steam voyages across the Atlantic Ocean lately per¬ 
formed by the Great 
Western, and other 
vessels of the same 
kind, form an era 
in commercial in¬ 
tercourse that will 
tend greatly to the 
advantage of New 


15. Its public 
buildings are nume¬ 
rous, and many of 
them elegant. The 
City Hall, new Cus¬ 
tom House, Mer- City Hall New Yor k. 

chant’s Exchange, 

Hall of the University, Astor House, &c. are among the most striking 
and important. The churches are about 150 in number. 

10. Of popular education ? How many children are taught annu¬ 
ally ? 11. What is said of the people of New York ? Of the State ? 

12. Where is the city of New York situated ? What is it ? What is 
said of its progress in population ? 13. Foreign, coasting, and inland 

trade ? 14. Of the steam voyages ? 15. Mention the public buildings. 

















128 


DESCRIPTIVE GEOGRAPHY 



Great Fire in New York. 


16. This city suffered a severe loss by the great fire of December 
16th, 1835, which destroyed 530 buildings, and other property to the 
amount of more than seventeen millions of dollars. 

17. Brooklyn, on the opposite side of the East river, is properly a 
suburb of New York. It commands a delightful view of the city and 
surrounding country, and is a pleasant place of residence. About 50 
miles above New York, on the Hudson River, is West Point, the seat 
of the United States’ Military Academy for the instruction of officers of 
the army. 

18. Albany, the capital of the state, is 150 miles from the city of 
New York. It contains the State House, and many other handsome 
public and private buildings, and is the centre of an extensive and im¬ 
portant inland trade, being connected with the ocean by the Hudson 
river, and with Lakes Erie and Champlain by the State canals. 

-94- 

19. Newburg, Poughkeepsie, Cattskill, Hudson, Troy, and Lansing- 
burg, all on the Hudson, are flourishing towns. Utica, Rochester, and 
Buffalo, are the most important places on the Erie canal, and are noted 
for the rapid increase of their population. Besides these, there are num- 
rous thriving towns in various parts of the state, of which Rome, Au¬ 
burn, Geneva, Canandaigua, Ithaca, Oswego, Sackett’s Harbour, and 
Plattsburg, are the principal. 


16. What is said of the Great Fire? 17. Describe Brooklyn. West 
Point. 18. Albany. 19. Newburg, <fcc. Utica, &c. The other 
towns. 

























NEW JERSEY. 


12b' 


Map No. 7. —What countries bound New-York on the north ? U.-Ca., 
L.-Ca. — What States on the south? Pa., N.-J. — On the east? 
Vt., Ms., Ct.—What are the three most northern counties ? S.-Le., 

Fn., Cn. — Most southern ? Rd. — Most eastern ? Sk. — Most west¬ 
ern ? Ce. — What two great lakes separate New-York from Upper 
Canada ? Ee., Oo. — How long arc they ? What river forms part of the 
boundary between this state and Upper Canada ? S.-Le. — How long 
is it ? How long is Lake Champlain ? George ? Oneida ? Skene- 
ateles ? Cayuga ? Seneca ? Canandaigua ? Crooked and Black 
Lakes ? What three rivers flow into Lake Ontario ? Ge., Oo., Bk. — 
What four flow into the St. Lawrence river? S.-Rs.,Rt., Gs., Oe.— 
Which river flows into the Atlantic Ocean ? Hn. — YVhich is the 
largest branch of the Hudson river ? Mk. — Tell the lengths of all the 
foregoing rivers. How many miles is the Hudson river navigable for 
steam-boats ? For sloops ? For ships ? What river unites Lakes Erie 
and Ontario ? Na. 

What island is in Niagara river ? Gd. — What celebrated falls on 
the Niagara river ? Na. — What island forms one of the counties of the 
state? Sn. — What island contains three counties? Lg. — What is 
the length of Long Island ? What Sound separates it from Connecticut ? 

- 95 - 



NEW JERSEY. 

1. New Jersey possesses considerable variety of surface, 
being mountainous in the northern parts, moderately level in 
the middle, and low and chiefly sandy in the south. 

Neio Jersey. Q. — 1. What docs New Jersey possess ? 2. What is 

9 











130 


DESCRIPTIVE GEOGRAPHY. 


2. Most of the soil is well cultivated, and produces the 
various grains common to this part of the Union with fruits 
and vegetables in abundance, which supply the markets of 
the large cities in the adjacent states. 

3. The manufactures are extensive and flourishing. They 
comprise cotton and woollen goods, with various articles of 
iron, glass, leather, &c. 

4. Several important canals and rail-roads extend through 
the state, and add greatly to the facilities of intercourse be¬ 
tween the northern and southern parts of the Union. 

5. The people of New Jersey bore their full share in the perils and 
hardships of the revolution ; and some of the most important battles 
of that period were fought within the limits of the state. 

6. Trenton, on the Delaware river, at the head of tide-water, is the 
capital of New Jersey. It has considerable trade and manufactures, 
and is noted for the capture of the Hessians in 1776, by General 
Washington. 

7. Newark is the largest and most important place in the state. It is 
prettily situated and well built, and has extensive manufactures. New 
Brunswick, on the Raritan river, is the depot of a fertile and populous 
district, and is a place of considerable trade. 

8. Paterson, at the falls of the Passaic river, is one of the principal 
manufacturing towns in the country. Here are numerous mills, fac¬ 
tories, founderies, and all the different establishments necessary in a 
place devoted to the fabrication, on a large scale, of cotton and woollen 
goods, paper, and machinery of various kinds. 

9. Princeton is a neat and pleasant town. It is the seat of New 
Jersey College, one of the oldest and most respectable literary institu¬ 
tions in the Union. Elizabethtown, Burlington, Camden, and Salem, 
are thriving towns. 


Map No. 7. — What bounds New Jersey on the north ? N.-Y. — 

What on the east? A.-On., N.-Y-West? Pa., De. — What river 

separates New Jersey from Pennsylvania and Delaware ? De. — What 
river separates it from New York ? Hn. — Which are the three prin¬ 
cipal rivers of New Jersey? Pc., Rn., Me. — Which is the most 
northern county? Sx. — The most southern? C.-My. — The most 
eastern ? Bn. — The most western ? Sm. — What Cape at the south¬ 
ern extremity of New Jersey ? My. — What Bay on the south-west ? 
De. — In which county is Trenton ? Mr. — Newark ? Ex. — Pater- 


said of the soil ? What does it produce ? 3. What is said of the 

manufactures ? What do they comprise ? 4. What extends through the 
state ? 5. What is said of the people ? 6. Describe Trenton. 7. New¬ 

ark. New Brunswick. 8. Paterson. 9. Princeton, and other towns. 




PENNSYLVANIA 


131 


son? Pc, — New Brunswick? Mx.—What is the population of 
each of these towns ? — In what year was the battle of Trenton 
fought ? — Of Princeton ? — Of Freehold or Monmouth Court-house ? 
— Of Red Bank? 


98 



Ship of the Line Pennsylvania. 


PENNSYLVANIA. 

1. Pennsylvania is, next to New York, the largest in 
extent of the four Middle States, and the second in population 
in the Union. It is highly distinguished for its various manu¬ 
factures, vast mineral resources, and extensive public works. 

2. The interior of the state is traversed by the different 
ridges of the Alleghany Mountains, while the eastern and 
western sections are level, or moderately hilly. 

3. The soil is generally well cultivated, and yields in 
abundance wheat, corn, and other grains, with all the fruits 
common to the Middle States. 

4. The mineral wealth of Pennsylvania is probably greater 
than that of any other state in the Union ; coal, iron, and lime, 
are found in vast quantities, and salt springs are numerous. 


Pennsylvania. Q.— 1. What is Pennsylvania ? For what is it dis¬ 
tinguished ? 2. What is said of the interior of the state ? The eastern 

and western sections ? 3. Of the soil ? 4. The mineral wealth ? 






















132 


DESCRIPTIVE GEOGRAPHY 


5. The works of internal improvement are on an extensive 
scale; though not yet completed, they have added greatly to 
the intercourse between the eastern and western parts of the 
Union, and are rapidly increasing the trade and commerce 
of the state. 

6. No general system of education was adopted in Penn¬ 
sylvania till 1834. Since that period, the number of schools 
and scholars has greatly increased. Besides more than five 
thousand common schools, there are two Universities, nine 
Colleges, and a number of respectable academies in the state. 



Girard College. 


7. The Girard College, for orphans, near Philadelphia, was endowed 
by the munificence of a private individual, Stephen Girard, who died in 
1832, and left two millions of dollars for the purpose of erecting and 
supporting the institution. 

8. Pennsylvania was settled by a colony of English Quakers or 
Friends, under the guidance of William Penn, whose liberal views in 
government and religion, and just policy towards the natives, ensured 
the prosperity of the colony, and preserved peace for many years between 
the Indians and white settlers. 

9. This state acted a conspicuous part in the war of the revolution. 


5. The works of internal improvement? What have they added? 

6. What is said of education? Of the number of schools? 7. Girard 
College? 8. Who settled Pennsylvania? What is said of William 
Penn? 9. How did the state act during the revolution? 
























PENNSYLVANIA 


133 


It was in her chief city that glorious declaration was made, which asserted 
and placed on a sure basis the civil and political rights of mankind, and 
formed new era in the history of the world. 

- 97 - 

10. Harrisburg, the capital of the state, is pleasantly situated on the 
east bank of the Susquehanna river. It contains the slate capitol, and 
other public buildings. 

11. Philadelphia is one of the most regular and handsomely-built 
cities in America. It stands on the west bank of the Delaware river, 
one hundred miles from the sea, and is noted lor the cleanliness of the 
streets, and the neat appearance of the buildings. 

12. In manufactures, it is the first city in the United States; and its 
commerce is in a highly flourishing condition. The inland trade with 
the Western States has become very extensive, and the exportation of 
coal employs many vessels and men, and a large amount of capital. 

13. Philadelphia is celebrated as a seat of literature and science, es¬ 
pecially of medical science. The University of Pennsylvania and the 
Jefferson Medical School both enjoy a high reputation. The public and 
private schools are numerous and well attended ; and the city abounds 
in benevolent and religious institutions. 



Philadelphia Water-Works. 


14. It is also adorned with many handsome public buildings, of 
which the United States’ Bank, Merchants’ Exchange, and Mint, arc 

10. Describe Harrisburg? 11. What is said of Philadelphia ? For 
what is it noted ? 12. What is said of its manufactures ? Commerce ? 

Exportation of coal? 13. For what is Philadelphia celebrated ? What 
are numerous? In what does the city abound ? 14. With what is it 

















134 


DESCRIPTIVE GEOCRAPHY 


the most elegant. The Philadelphia Alms-House, State Penitentiary, 
Naval Asylum, and Girard College, all near the city, are large and im¬ 
portant edifices. 

15. The Fairmount water-works, on the Schuylkill* river, were 
erected for the purpose of supplying the city with pure and wholesome 
water, which is conveyed in pipes, amounting altogether to near 100 
miles in length. 4,000,000 gallons of water are used every 24 hours. 

16. The ship of the line Pennsylvania was built at the United States’ 
Navy Yard, in the lower part of this city, and launched in 1837. This 
vast ship, probably the largest ever constructed, is 247 feet long, and 59 
deep ; carries 140 guns, and is 3,306 tons in burthen. 

17. Pittsburg, situated at the head of the Ohio river, is greatly dis¬ 
tinguished for its numerous manufactories, and its extensive inland 
trade. The surrounding country abounds in-bituminous coal, and the 
constant use of that fuel causes a perpetual cloud of smoke to hang over 
the town. Alleghany and Birmingham are considered suburbs of Pitts¬ 
burg, and are connected with it by bridges. 

18. Lancaster is a flourishing city, and is situated in the midst of a 
rich and fertile country. Reading, Easton, Lebanon, Carlisle, Pottsville, 
Beaver, Wilkesbarre,t and Erie, are all considerable towns: the latter is 
important on account of its harbour, which is one of the best on the lakes. 


Map No. 7. —What bounds Pennsylvania cn the north? N.-Y.— 
On the south? De., Md., Va. — East? N.-Y., N.-J. — West? Oo., 
Va. — What river separates Pennsylvania from New Jersey ? De.— 
What river flows into Chesapeake Bay? Sa. — Which arc its two 
chief branches ? Nh., Wt. — What rivers unite at Pittsburg? Ay., 
Ma. — What river do they form? Oo. — What river flows into the 
Susquehanna above Harrisburg? Ja. — Tell the lengths of the fore¬ 
going rivers. — What two rivers flow into the Delaware ? Lh., SI. — 
What river flows into the Ohio below Pittsburg ? Br. — How many 
miles is the Delaware navigable for steam-boats ? — What mountains 
extend between Berks and Schuylkill counties ? Be. — What moun¬ 
tains in the centre of the state ? Ay. — What two ridges in the 
western part? LI., Ct. — In which county is Philadelphia? Pa.— 
Harrisburg? Dn.— Lancaster? Lr. — Pittsburg? Ay. — What is 
the population of Philadelphia ? — Lancaster ? —Harrisburg ? — Read¬ 
ing ? — Easton ? — Erie ? — Beaver ? — Pittsburg? —What lake forms 
the north-west boundary of the state ? Ee. — What town on the lake ? 
Ee. — In what year was Braddock defeated ? — In wliat year were the 
battles of Brandywine and Germantown fought?—When did the 
massacre of Wyoming take place ? 

adorned ? Mention the public buildings ? 15. Fairmount water-works ? 
16. Of the Ship Pennsylvania? 17. Describe Pittsburg. 18. Lan¬ 
caster. The other towns. 


Schuylkill , Skool'-kil. 


t Wilkesbarre, Wilks'-bar-ry. 








DELAWARE. 


135 


-99- 

DELAWARE. 

1. Delaware is the smallest in population, and, except 
Rhode Island, the least in extent, of any state in the Union. 
Its general aspect is that of an extended plain mostly favour¬ 
able for cultivation. 

2. The chief products arc wheat and Indian corn, of 
which the former is generally of excellent quality^ Brandy¬ 
wine creek, in the upper part of the state, supplies extensive 
water-power for a number of large manufacturing establish¬ 
ments. The principal articles furnished by these, are flour, 
corn-meal, cotton and woollen goods, paper, and gunpowder. 

3. The northern part of Delaware is the principal thorough¬ 
fare between the northern and southern states, which is much 
facilitated by the Chesapeake and Delaware Canal, and two 
rail-roads which extend across it. 

4. Near Lewistown, an important national work, the Delaware Break¬ 
water, has been erected, for the purpose of affording a shelter to vessels 
in stormy weather. The work consists of two piers, an ice-breaker 
1700 feet, and a break-water 2800 feet long. The cost of the whole is 
estimated at three millions of dollars. 

5. Wilmington is the largest and most important place in the statfe. 
It is a well-built and growing town, and contains a United States’ 
arsenal, several banks, a number of churches, &c., and is supplied with 
water by works on the Brandywine. It has considerable trade, with 
some manufactures, and sends several ships to the whale fishery. 

6. Dover, the seat of government, is situated on Jones’s creek, and 
contains a handsome State House. New Castle, Georgetown, and 
Smyrna, are places of some note. Lewistown, near the entrance to 
Delaware Bay, is the oldest town in the state, being originally settled 
by the Swedes and Finns. 


Map No. 7. — What state bounds Delaware on the north ? Pa. — On 
the south and west? Md. — On the east? N.-J. — What river and 
Bay separate Delaware from New Jersey ? De. — What Cape in the 
south part of the state ? Hn. — Which is the most northern county ? 
N.-Ce. — What is the population of the principal town ? 


Delaware. Q. — I. What is said of Delaware ? 2. What are its 

chief products? 3. What is said of the northern part of the state? 
What canal is in it ? 4. What is said of the Delaware Break-water ? 

& Describe Wilmington. 6. Dover, New Castle, and other towns. 






136 


DESCRIPTIVE GEOGRAPHY 


100 



1. The Southern States comprise Maryland, Virginia, 
North Carolina, South Carolina, Georgia, Alabama, Missis¬ 
sippi, and Louisiana. The District of Columbia and the 
Territory of Florida are also included in this section of the 
Union. 

2. The whole region extends from the Susquehanna to the 
Sabine river: its shores are washed by the Atlantic Ocean 
and the Gulf of Mexico. 

3. On the sea-coast, the ground is low and often swampy, 
but sometimes sandy. In the interior, the surface is greatly 
diversified, and frequently hilly and mountainous. The 
highest elevations in the Atlantic States are found in this 
section. 

4. The inhabitants of the Southern States are chiefly occu¬ 
pied in agricultural pursuits; many of them have large plant¬ 
ations, with numerous slaves. 

5. The wealthy classes are generally well-educated,* possess culti- 

Southern States. Q .— 1. What do the Southern States comprise? 
2. How far does the whole region extend ? 3. What is said of the land 

on the sea-coast ? In the interior ? 4. How are the inhabitants ehicfly 
employed? 5. What is said of the wealthy classes? What of the 











SOUTHERN STATES 


137 

vated minds, and refined manners; and are noted for their hospitality. 
Education is not so general among the poorer classes of the people as 
m the Middle and Eastern states. 

6. Nearly the whole of the cotton crop of the United 
States is raised here; which, with sugar and rice, is confined 
to its southern section. In the northern, the principal produc¬ 
tions are tobacco, wheat, and corn. 

7. Gold abounds in nearly all the Atlantic States of this 
region ; but is almost exclusively confined to the upper and 
middle portions of the country. This metal is now so exten¬ 
sively found, as to have become an object of national importance. 

8. The gold region embraces a great extent of country, and reaches 
fiom Virginia, through North and South Carolina, and Georgia, to 
Alabama. 

9. Branches of the United States’ Mint are established at Charlotte, 
in North Carolina, and at Dahlonega, in Georgia, for the purpose of 
coining the gold found here. 

- 101 - 

10. The population of the Southern States is chiefly of 
British origin. There are, however, many descendants of the 
French and Spanish colonists, particularly in Louisiana and 
Florida. 

11. The Negroes, who form about two-fifths of the population, consti¬ 
tute a separate class, and are mostly held in slavery. The Indians have 
nearly all emigrated west of the Mississippi river. A few Seminoles 
still remain in Florida. 


Map No. 4. — Which is the largest division of the Southern States? 
Va. — The smallest? S.-C. — Which is the most northern ? Va.— 
Southern? Fa. — Eastern? N.-C. — Western? La. — Which divi¬ 
sions border on the Atlantic Ocean ? Md., Va., N.-C., S.-C., Ga., Fa. 
— Which border on the Gulf of Mexico? Aa., Mi., La., Fa. — What 
state is divided by Chesapeake Bay into two parts ? Md. — What Ter¬ 
ritory* has a coast both on the Atlantic ocean and the Gulf of Mexico ? 

poorer classes ? 6. What is said of the cotton crop ? Of other produc¬ 
tions ? 7. Where does gold abound ? What has it become ? 8. What 

does the gold region embrace ? 9. What is said of the United States’ 

Mint ? 

10. What is said of the population ? 11. Of the Negroes ? Of the 

Indians ? 


* The Territories of the United States are of two kinds, organized and un¬ 
organized. The first are settled by white inhabitants, but contain a popula- 







DESCRIPTIVE GEOGRAPHY 


138 

Fa._The Southern States extend from latitude 40£ to 24 degrees. 

How many degrees of latitude, then, do they comprise ? They extend 
from longitude 2 degrees east from Washington, to 17 west. What 
amount of longitude do they include ? 

- 102 - 



Bombardment of Fort M’Henry. 

MARYLAND. 

1. Maryland is more irregular in its outline than any 
state in the Union, and is divided by Chesapeake Bay into 
two sections, which are called the Eastern and Western 
Shores. 

2. In agriculture, manufactures, and commerce, this State 
holds a respectable rank. Flour and tobacco are the staple 
productions. Of the former article, more than 500,000 bar¬ 
rels have been inspected in Baltimore in one year. 


Maryland. Q.— 1. How is Maryland divided ? 2. What is said of 


tion of less than 60,000. On attaining that number, the people of a territory, 
by receiving the sanction of Congress to that effect, may elect a governor 
and representatives to the National Legislature, similar to the other states. 
Florida, Wisconsin, and Iowa, are the organized territories. Missouri, Ore¬ 
gon, and the Indian Territory are inhabited by Indians only, and are unor¬ 
ganized. The last is peopled chiefly by the emigrant tribes, who are go¬ 
verned by their own chiefs, under the superintendence of the government of 
the United States. 

















MARYLAND, 


139 


3. The chief mineral products are iron and coal. The 
first is found in various parts of the State; the last occurs in 
the western part chiefly. 

4. This State was settled by a body of Roman Catholics under Lord 
Baltimore, whose wise and liberal government attracted emigrants from 
all quarters, and tended greatly to the early growth and prosperity of 
the colony. 

5. Baltimore is the third city in the Union in population. It is situ- 
ated about 200 miles from the sea, and possesses an extensive foreign 
and domestic trade, and is the greatest flour market in the world. 

6. The public buildings are numerous, and many of them handsome 
specimens of architecture. The Exchange, the Roman Catholic Cathe¬ 
dral, and the Battle and Washington Monuments, are among the prin¬ 
cipal. The latter is the finest structure of the kind in the country. It 
is a Doric column, 140 feet in height, and 20 feet in diameter at the 
bottom ; on the top is a colossal statue of the Father of his Country. 
Several important rail-roads centre in Baltimore, which add greatly to 
its trade. 

7. Fort M’Henry, a short distance below the city, commands the en¬ 
trance to the harbour. It was bombarded by a number of British ships 
of war, in 1814; but being bravely defended, the assailants were forced 
to retire. 

8. Annapolis is the capital of Maryland. It is situated on Severn 
River, three miles from Chesapeake Bay. The State House is a hand¬ 
some building, in which the old Congress held some of their sessions. 

9. Frederick City is, in point of wealth, elegance, and population, the 
second place in the state. Hagerstown and Williamsport are thriving 
towns. 


Map No. 7. —What bounds Maryland on the north ? Pa. — South 
and west ? Va. — East? De., A.-On.—What bay and river divide Ma¬ 
ryland into two separate parts? Cc., Sa.—What river separates it 
from Virginia ? Pc. — What rivers flow into Chesapeake Bay an the 
cast side ? Ck., Ne., Pe. What rivers on the west side? Pt., Pc.— 
Which is the most eastern county ? Wr. — The most western ? Ay. 
In which county is Baltimore ? Be. — In which is Annapolis? A.-Al. 
— What is the population of Baltimore ? Of Frederick City ? Of 
Hagerstown ? Annapolis ? Easton ? In what year was the battle 
of North Point fought? Of Bladensburg? Of Havre de Grace? 
What mountains extend through the western part of the state ? Ay. 


the agriculture, manufactures, and commerce ? 3. What are the chief 

mineral products ? 4. By whom was Maryland first settled? What is 

6aid of this government ? 5. Describe Baltimore. 6. Its public build¬ 

ings. The Washington Monument. 7. What is said of Fort M’Henry ? 
8.'Describe Annapolis. 9. Frederick City, and other towns. 




140 


DESCRIPTIVE GEOGRAPHY 


103 



View in Washington. 

DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA. 


1. The District of Columbia is a territory of ten miles 
square, under the immediate government of Congress. It is 
divided into Washington and Alexandria Counties, and con¬ 
tains the Cities of Washington, Georgetown, and Alexandria. 

2. It lies on both sides of the Potomac river, and was 
ceded by the States of Virginia and Maryland to the United 
States in 1790. It is about 110 miles from the mouth of the 
river, and nearly 200 from the sea. 

3. The City of Washington, the Capital of the United States, was 
laid out in 1791, under the superintendence of the distinguished man 
whose name it bears ; and in the year 1800, the seat of government 
was changed from Philadelphia to this place. 

4. Washington is the residence of the President of the United States, 
and the other chief executive officers of the General Government, also 
of the different foreign ministers sent to this country. 

5. The National Congress meets here in the Capitol every year on the 


District of Columbia. Q .— 1. What is the District of Columbia? 
How is it divided ? What does it contain ? 2. By what states was it 

ceded ? At what time ? 3. What is the City of Washington ? When 

was it laid out ? When was the Government removed here ? 4. Who 

resides in Washington? 5. What body meets here? What Court? 





























DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA 


141 


first Monday in December, and the Supreme Federal Court also holds 
its annual sessions in this city. During the sessions of Congress, 
Washington is thronged with visiters from all parts of the world. 

6. The Capitol is a large and magnificent building of white freestone, 
352 feet long, in the shape of a cross, with the Representatives’ Hall and 
Senate Chamber in the two wings, and a spacious Rotunda in the 
centre. 

7. The Representatives’ Hall is semi-circular, 95 feet in length, and 
60 in height, lighted from the top, and adorned with a colonnade of pil¬ 
lars beautifully polished. It is one of the most elegant halls in the 
world. 

The Senate Chamber is of the same shape, and 74 feet long. The 
Rotunda is 96 feet in diameter, and is 96 feet to the top of the dome 
within. It is all of marble, and the floor is handsomely paved. The 
whole has a most grand and imposing effect. The centre, and each 
wing, are surmounted with domes. 

8. The President’s House, built of white freestone, on an eminence 
about a mile and a half west from the Capitol, presents a very hand¬ 
some appearance. It is two stories high, with a front of 180 feet, and 
is surrounded by extensive grounds. On each side are the offices for 
the State, War, Navy, and Treasury Departments. 

9. Alexandria, on the Virginia side of the Potomac, six miles south 
of Washington, has a considerable trade in flour and tobacco. George¬ 
town, separated from Washington by Rock Creek, is a thriving place, 
and has some commerce. 


Map No. 7. — On what river is Washington ? Pc. — On which side 
is it ? E. — On which side is Georgetown ? E. — Alexandria ? W. 
— What is the population of each of these places ? The largest part 
of the District is on the Maryland side of the river, and forms Wash¬ 
ington County. That on the other side forms Alexandria County. , 

- 104- 

VIRGINIA. 

1. Virginia is the largest state in the Union, and was the 
first settled of the English Colonies ; from which circum¬ 
stance it is often called “ the ancient dominion.” 

2. Many eminent men were natives of Virginia ; among 
whom, the illustrious AVashington, with Jefferson, Madison, 
and Monroe, were all Presidents of the United States. 

5. What is said of Washington ? 6. Describe the Capitol. 7. Repre¬ 

sentatives’ Hall. Senate Chamber. 8. President’s House. 9. Alexan¬ 
dria. Georgetown. 

Virginia. Q .— 1. What is Virginia? What is it often called, and 
why f 2. Who were natives of this state ? 3. What mountains are 






142 


DESCRIPTIVE GEOGRAPHY 



Surrender of Lord Cornwallis. 


3. This state is traversed by the Alleghany Mountains and 
the Blue Ridge. The country east of the latter is generally 
level, while the western division is hilly and mountainous. 

4. The productions of the north and the south, wheat, cot¬ 
ton, and tobacco, are all raised here. Indian corn is also 
extensively cultivated. Gold, copper, lead, iron, coal, and 
salt, abound. Several companies are at present employed in 
working the gold-mines. 

5. The mineral-springs of Virginia are celebrated for their 
medicinal properties, and are much resorted to during the 
summer season. The principal of these are, the Warm, the 
Hot, and the White Sulphur springs. 

6. Several important rail-roads and canals are already 
finished in this state, and others are advancing towards 
completion. By these, transportation and travelling wall be 
rendered easy through a large portion of the state. 

7. Virginia was among the leading states that distinguished them¬ 
selves during the Revolutionary war. In the year 1781, the siege and 
surrender of Yorktown took place—when Lord Cornwallis and his 
army were made prisoners of war ; an event that decided the hitherto 
doubtful contest, and secured the independence of the United States. 


in Virginia ? 4. What are the productions ? What is said of gold, & c. ? 
5. Of the Mineral Springs ? 6. Rail-roada ? 7. What was Virginia? 




















VIRGINIA 


143 


8. The Natural Bridge 
over Cedar Creek, a small 
Btream running into James 
river, consists of an enor¬ 
mous chasm, 200 feet in 
depth, nearly perpendicular, 
through which the creek 
passes. A huge rock is 
thrown across the chasm at 
the top, forming a natural 
bridge 60 feet in width, and 
covered with soil and trees. 

9. Richmond, the capital 
of the state, stands on James 
river, 110 miles from its 
mouth. It is surrounded by 
a fertile country, and has a 
flourishing trade. Its exports 
are wheat, flour, tobacco, 
and coals. 

10. The principal sea-port 
is Norfolk. It has a fine har¬ 
bour, and more foreign commerce than any other town in the state. 
At Gosport, in Portsmouth, opposite to Norfolk, is one of the most 
important Navy-Yards of the United States. 

- 105 - 

11. Petersburg, Fredericksburg, and Lynchburg, are each important 
towns. Wheeling, on the Ohio, is the channel of a great deal of busi¬ 
ness. Yorktown is celebrated for the surrender of Lord Cornwallis to 
the combined American and French armies, under General Washing¬ 
ton. Charlottesville is the seat of the University of Virginia. Monticello, 
two miles from this place, is noted for having been the residence of 
Thomas Jefferson, President of the United States. 

12. In Westmoreland county, on the Potomac, is shown the spot 
where Washington was born. The house, which stood about half a 
mile from the river, is now in ruins. A simple stone, with the inscrip¬ 
tion, “ Here, on the 11th of February, 1732, George Washington was 
born,” designates the consecrated spot. 

13. Farther up the river, eight miles below Alexandria, is Mount 
Vernon, the former residence of that great and good man. Here repose 
his mortal remains, which have recently been deposited within a beau¬ 
tiful sarcophagus, the offering of private munificence. 

What is said of Lord Cornwallis, &c. ? 8. Describe the Natural 

Bridge. 9. Richmond. 10. Norfolk, &c. 

11. Petersburg, and the other towns. For what is Yorktown cel¬ 
ebrated? Of Charlottesville? 12. Where was Washington born? 
13. Where is Mount Vernon, &c. ? 






144 


DESCRIPTIVE GEOGRAPHY 



Map No. 4. — What bounds Virginia on the north ? Pa., Md. — On 
the south ? N.-Ca. — East ? A.-On. — West ? Oo., Ky. — W'hat river 
separates Virginia from Ohio ? Oo.— Which from Maryland? Pc. 

— What river and mountains from Kentucky? B.-Sy., Cd. — What 
two ranges of mountains extend through Virginia ? Ay., B.-Re. — 
How long and high are the Allegheny Mountains ? 

Map No. 7. — What Bay separates the two eastern counties from the 
rest of the state ? Ce. — What two Capes at the entrance of Chesa¬ 
peake Bay? Cs., Hy. — In what county is Richmond? Ho. — In 
which is Norfolk ? Nk. — Lynchburg ? Cl. — Wheeling ? Oo. — 
Petersburg? De. — In which county is Washington’s birth-place? 
Wd. — Mount Vernon? Fx.— The University of Virginia ? Ae.— 
In what year did Cornwallis surrender? — What four rivers flow into 
Chesapeake Bay? Pc., Rk., Yk., Js. — Tell the length of each. — On 
what river is Richmond ? Js.— Petersburg? Ax. — Lynchburg? Js. 

— Yorktown? Yk. — Fredericksburg? Rk. — Wheeling? Oo.— 
Charleston ? Ka. — See Map 9. — A vast quantity of salt is manufac¬ 
tured at this place. 

-- 106 - 


Making Tar. 

NORTH CAROLINA. 

1. North Carolina is an extensive but thinly peopled 
State. The country, for more than sixty miles from the coast, 
is a low, sandy plain, intersected with many swamps and 
inlets from the sea, and covered with extensive pine forests. 


North Carolina. Q. — 1. What is North Carolina? Describe the 










NORTH CAROLINA 


145 


2. In the interior the surface is varied and hilly; and on 
the western frontier it ascends into mountains, whose summits 
are the most elevated of any in the Atlantic States; Black 
Mountain being 6476 feet in height. 

3. The pine forests which occupy the lower part of the 
State, furnish one of the most important items of its trade, 
producing turpentine, tar, pitch, rosin, and lumber, in great 
abundance. 

3. The commerce is limited for want of good harbours ; 
and there is no large commercial town. The trade is carried 
on chiefly through the ports of the neighbouring states. The 
exports are cotton, rice, tobacco, and the produce of the 
forests. 

5. Gold, iron, and black lead, with some copper, are the principal 
minerals of North Carolina. The mines of the former are extensively 
worked, and are even considered of great national importance. 

6. A branch of the United States’ Mint has been established at Char¬ 
lotte, for the purpose of coining the gold found in this and the neigh¬ 
bouring states. 

7. * Raleigh, the capital, is a small but thriving town. The State 
House, containing Canova’s celebrated statue of Washington, was un¬ 
fortunately destroyed by fire in 1831. A new building has since been 
erected. 

8. Newbern, the principal town in the state, is pleasantly situated, 
and well built. Wilmington, on Cape Fear river, is the most commer¬ 
cial place in North Carolina. It carries on some trade with the West 
Indies. 

9. Fayetteville, at the head of steam-boat navigation on Cape Fear 
river, contains a United States’ armory. Salem and Charlotte are small 
but thriving places. Chapel Hill, about thirty miles from Raleigh, con¬ 
tains the University of North Carolina. 


Map No. 4. — What bounds North Carolina on the north ? Va.—On 
the south ? S.-Ca., Ga. — East ? A.-On. — West ? Te. — What moun- 


interior. What high mountain is in this state ? 3. What occupies the 

lower part of the state ? What do they produce ? 4. What is said of 

the commerce ? What are the exports ? 5. What are the principal 

minerals ? 6. What is established at Charlotte ? 7. Which is the capi¬ 
tal ? 8. What is said of Newbern? Wilmington? 9. Fayetteville, 

and other towns ? 


10 


* Raleigh, Raw'-le. 





146 


DESCRIPTIVE GEOGRAPHY 


tains extend through the west part of North Carolina ? Ay., B.-Re. — 
Which is the highest mountain ? Bk.— How high is it ? What three 
capes on the coast ? Hs., Lt., Fr. 


Map No. 7.— What two sounds in North Carolina ? Ae., Po. — How 
long are they ? What two rivers flow into Albemarle Sound ? Re., 
Cn. — Which two into Pamlico Sound ? Tr., Ne.— In what direction 
do the Cape Fear, Lumber, Yadkin, and Catawba rivers flow? How 
long are they ? How far are Chowan, Roanoke, Tar, and Cape Fear 
rivers navigable, and for what kind of vessels ? How many inhabitants 
have Wilmington, Newbern, Fayetteville, Raleigh, Charlotte, and Edcn- 
ton ? In what counties are the foregoing towns ? N.-Hr., Cn., Cd., 

We., Mg., Cn.—In what county is the University of North Carolina? 
Oe. — In what year was the battle of Guilford Court-House fought ? 

- 107 - 



Battle of Eutaw Springs. 

SOUTH CAROLINA. 


1. This stale lies nearly in the form of a triangle between 
North Carolina and Georgia. It is about half the size of the 
latter, and is similar to the adjoining states in climate, soil, 
and productions. 

2. Cotton is the great staple of South Carolina; but rice, 
tobacco, tar, pitch, turpentine, and lumber, are also amongst 

South Carolina. Q. — 1. What is said of this state ? ITow does it 
compare with Georgia? 2. What is the great staple ? What are its 














SOUTH CAROLINA. 147 

its products. Wheat, Indian corn, and indigo, are raised for 
home consumption. 

3. The commerce is extensive and valuable. It consists 
in the export of agricultural products of the state, and of 
large quantities of those raised in Georgia and North Carolina. 

4. The Charleston and Hamburg’ rail-road, 136 miles in length, is one 
of the greatest works'of the kind yet constructed, and has already 
greatly benefited the trade of Charleston. 

5. The white residents, especially of the lower and middle 
sections of the state, are chiefly wealthy planters, who, in 
general, have large incomes, and are distinguished for their 
intelligence and refinement. 

6. South Carolina was an illustrious actor and sufferer in the war of 
independence. Her capital was for a considerable period in possession 
of the enemy ; and the battles of the Cowpens, King’s Mountain, and 
Eutaw Springs, were among the most important that took place during 
the revolutionary contest. 

7. Charleston is the principal city of South Carolina, and the largest 
in the Atlantic states south of the Potomac river. Its commerce is con¬ 
siderable, and is annually increasing. The citizens are noted for their 
hospitality and urbanity. 

8. Columbia, the capital of the state, is regularly laid out, with very 
wide streets, and is a neatly built town. Georgetown, on Winyaw 
Bay, Camden, on the Wateree river, and Hamburg, on the Savannah, 
opposite to Augusta, are amongst the principal towns of the state. 

Map No. 8. — What bounds South Carolina on the north ? N.-Ca. — 
On the west? Ga.— East? A.-On.— What river separates it from 
Georgia? Sh. — What rivers flow into Winyaw Bay? G.-Pe., Ww. 

— What river south of Winyaw Bay ? Se. — What rivers form the 
Santee ? We., Ce. — The Congaree ? Sa., Bd. — What rivers flow 
into St. Helena sound ? Eo., Ce. — What are the lengths of all the 
foregoing rivers ?—How many miles, and for what kinds of vessels, are 
the Waccamaw, Great Pedee, Wateree, and Congaree rivers navigable ? 

— What is the population of Charleston ? — Of Columbia? — Camden 
and Georgetown ? — In what year was the battle of Fort Moultrie 
fought ? — Charleston ? — Monk’s corner ? — Gates defeated ?— King’s 
Mountain ? — Cowpens ? — Ilobkirk’s Hill and Eutaw Springs ? — In 
what district is Charleston ? Cn. — Columbia ? Rd. —Camden ? Kw. 

— Which is the most northern district ? Sg. — Most southern ? Bt. 

— Eastern ? Hy. — Western ? Ps. 

other products ? 3. What is said of the commerce ? 4. Of the 

Charleston and Hamburg rail-road? 5. Of the white residents? 6. 
What was South Carolina in the war of independence ? 7. Describe 

Charleston. 8. Columbia, &c. 




148 DESCRIPTIVE GEOGRAPHY. 


- 108 - 



Gold Mining. 

GEORGIA. 


1. Georgia is, next to Virginia, the largest of the Southern 
States; it was the last settled of the thirteen original colonies, 
and is now rapidly increasing in wealth, population, and im¬ 
portance. 

2. The great staple of Georgia is cotton, of which the 
annual crop exceeds 300,000 bales. The other products are 
rice, lumber, pitch,, tar, and turpentine, which are all exported 
to a large amount. Some tobacco is likewise raised in the 
northern, and sugar in the southern parts of the state. 

3. The cotton is produced of two kinds, the sea island, 
and upland. The former is double the value of the other, and 
is raised only in small quantities on the islands that lie along 
the sea-coast. 

4. The principal mineral is gold, which is found in the 
northern part of the state, and engages the labour of numer¬ 
ous individuals. Iron and copper also occur. Several 
rail-roads are now in progress in this state. 


Georgia. Q. — 1. What is said of Georgia? 2. What is the great 
staple of the state ? What is the amount of the annual crop ? What 
are the other products ? 3. What is said of cotton ? 4. What is the 










FLORIDA. 


149 


5. Savannah is the chief commercial depot of Georgia. It suffered 
much from the great fire of 1820 ; but it has recovered from this shock, 
and is, at present, one of the most flourishing cities in the southern 
states. 

Milledgeville, the capital of the state, is situated on the Oconee river. 
It is a place of some trade, and contains the State House. 

6. Augusta is the interior emporium of the state. It is connected 
with Charleston, by the Charleston and Hamburg rail-road ; and with 
Savannah, by the Savannah river. It is well built, and contains some 
handsome public edifices. A bridge 1200 feet long across the Savan¬ 
nah connects it with Hamburg. 

Columbus, on the Chattahoochee, and Macon, on the Ocmulgee, are 
amongst the most flourishing places in Georgia. Darien, Brunswick, 
and St. Mary’s, on the sea-coast, are improving towns. 


Map No. 8. — What bounds Georgia on the north ? N.-Ca. — On 
the south? Fa. — East? S.-Ca., A.-On. — West? Aa. — What river 
separates Georgia from South Carolina ? Sa.—What river separates it 
in part from Alabama? Ce. — What river in part from Florida? 
S.-Ms. — What five rivers flow into the Atlantic ocean ? Sh., Oe., Aa., 
Sa., S.-Ms. — What rivers form the Alatamaha ? Oe., Oe. — What 
rivers form the Apalachicola ? Ce., Ft. — What is the population of 
Savannah ? Augusta ? Columbus ? Macon ? In what counties are 
these towns ? Cm., Rd., Me., Bb. — In what county is Milledge¬ 
ville ? Bn. — To what towns do steam-boats ascend the Savannah ? 
Oconee? Ocmulgee? Chattahoochee? and Flint rivers? What is 
the distance of each from the sea ? Which is the largest island ? 
Cd. — What extensive swamp in Ware county? Oe. 

- 109 - 

FLORIDA. 

1. Florida was for nearly 200 years a Spanish Province, 
and was ceded by Spain, in 1819, to the American govern¬ 
ment. In 1812, East and West Florida were formed into a 
territory. 

2. The surface of the country is level, and not much ele¬ 
vated above the sea. The soil along the streams is very 
fertile, and well suited to the production of cotton, rice, to- 


principal mineral ? What are the other minerals ? What is said of 
rail-roads? 5. Describe Savannah, Milledgeville. 6. Augusta, and 
the other towns. 

Florida. Q. — 1. What was Florida? When was it ceded to the 
United States ? When was it formed into a territory ? 2. What is said 






150 


DESCRIPTIVE GEOGRAPHY 


bacco, sugar, and corn. Oranges, figs, dates, and pomegran¬ 
ates, are among its fruits. Indigo was at one time extensively 
cultivated, but is now abandoned. 

3. But a small part of Florida is under cultivation. It is 
better suited for a grazing than an agricultural district. Vast 
herds of cattle, horses, and swine, range over its pastures. 

4. Live-oak limber, so valuable in ship-building, is one of 
the most important products of Florida; and, with cedar logs, 
boards, scantling, &c., are cut to a considerable extent. Cot¬ 
ton, and the other products of the soil, with hides, tallow, and 
bees’-wax, form the chief articles of export. 

5. The Seminole Indians inhabit the Everglades, a country in the 
south part of the territory, covered with long rank grass, and frequent¬ 
ly overflowed with water. From this region the savages sally forth, 
and commit fearful murders and depredations upon the white in¬ 
habitants. 

6. St. Augustine is the oldest town in the United States, and is built 
in the Spanish style. Its climate is delightful, and it is often resorted 
to by invalids in quest of health. 

7. Tallahassee, the capital of Florida, is situated in a healthy and fer¬ 
tile district. It contains the Capitol, and several churches and banks. 
St. Mark’s, Apalachicola, and St. Joseph’s, are the chief commercial 
places of Middle Florida. They are all thriving towns. Pensacola is 
important as a naval station for United States’ ships of war. 

Map No. 4. — What bounds Florida on the north ? Ga., Aa., — On 
the east ? A.-On. —West and south ? G.-Mo.— What Cape is on the 
east coast? Cl. — What Capes on the west? S.-Bs., Rs., Se.— What 
Bays on the west? Pa., Ae., Vr., Ta., Cm. — What are the two 
chief lakes ? Ge., Mo. 


Map No. 8. — What river separates Florida from Alabama ? Po. — 
What from Georgia ? S.-Ms.— What rivers flow into Pensacola Bay ? 
Ea., B.-Wr., Y.-Wr. — What into Choctawhatehie Bay? Ce.— Into 
Apalachee Bay ? Oy., Oa. — Into Vacassar Bay? Se.—What river 
flows into the Atlantic Ocean north of St. Augustine ? S.-Js. — What 
into the Gulf of Mexico at Apalachicola ? Aa.—Tell the lengths of 
the seven rivers that have figures attached to them. — What is the popu¬ 
lation of Tallahassee? — St. Augustine?—Pensacola? — In what 
counties are these towns ? Ln., S.-Jn., Ea. 


of the surface of the country ? Of the soil ? Of its productions ? 
3. For what is it better suited ? 4. What is cut to a considerable ex¬ 
tent ? Which are the chief articles of export ? 5. What is said of the 

Seminole Indians ? What do they commit ? 6. Describe St, Augus¬ 

tine. 7. Tallahassee, and the other towns. 





ALABAMA. 


151 


110 



Steam-boat loading with cotton. 


ALABAMA. 

1. Alabama is remarkable for its rapid growth in popu¬ 
lation, wealth, and general prosperity. In the year 1810, its 
inhabitants were less than 10,000 in number; and now the 
State contains at least fifty times that amount. 

2. Cotton is the chief agricultural product; the crop of 
which amounts in value annually to about fifteen millions of 
dollars. Corn, the principal grain, is raised all over the 
state, and some tobacco is cultivated in the northern counties. 

3. Several useful works of internal improvement have 
been lately constructed, and others are in active progress. 
The principal of these will connect the most fertile districts in 
the interior with the Gulf of Mexico, and add greatly to the 
wealth and prosperity of the State. 

4. The various rivers which traverse both the northern and 
southern section of Alabama admit of an extensive steam-boat 
navigation, by which the valuable productions of the interior 

Alabama. Q. — 1. For what is Alabama remarkable ? How many 
inhabitants were there in 1810? How many now ? 2. What is the 

chief product? What are also cultivated? 3. What is said of works 
of internal improvement ? 4. For what are the rivers well adapted ? 



























152 


DESCRIPTIVE GEOGRAPHY 


State are conveyed to its great commercial markets, Mobile 
and New Orleans. 

5. The people of Alabama were greatly harassed during the late war 
by the depredations of the Creek and Seminole Indians; they were, 
however, signally defeated, in several desperate engagements of which 
Tohopeka was the principal. 

6. Mobile is a flourishing commercial town at the head of Mobile 
Bay; it was the first settled place in the state, and is ihfe chief depot 
for its produce. Tuscaloosa, the capital, is a town of considerable 
trade: it contains the State House, and the University of Alabama. 

7. Montgomery, near the head of the Alabama river, Wetumpka on 
the Coosa, and Gainesville on the Tombigby, all in the centre of^the 
state, are thriving towns. Florence, Tuscumbia, Decatur, and Hunts¬ 
ville, in the valley of the Tennessee river, are each places of some note. 


Map No. 8. —What bounds Alabama on the north ? Te.—The east ? 
Ga. — The west ? Mi. — What territory and gulf on the south ? Fa., 
Mo. — What river separates Alabama from Florida? Po.— What 
river flows into Mobile Bay? Mo. — What two rivers form Mobile 
river ? Ty., Aa. —What rivers form the Alabama ? Ca n Ta.—What 
river flows through the northern part of the state ? Te. — On what 
river is Tuscaloosa? B.-Wr. — How long is the Tombigby? Alaba¬ 
ma? Coosa? Tallapoosa? What is the population of Mobile? 
Wetumpka ? Huntsville ? Tuscaloosa ? Florence ? Montgomery ? 
In what county is Mobile? Me. — Tuscaloosa? Ta.— Florence? 
Le. — Huntsville ? Mn. — Wetumpka ? Ca. — How many miles are 
the following rivers navigable for steam-boats : viz. Tennessee ? Tom¬ 
bigby ? Black Warrior ? Alabama 2 In what year was the battle 
of Tohopeka fought ? 

- HI - 

MISSISSIPPI. 

1. This state, like Alabama, is remarkable for the great 
increase of its population. Emigration for the last few years 
has been rapid and extensive; and the number of its inhabit¬ 
ants, since 1830, is supposed to have been almost trebled. 

2. Cotton is the chief production of Mississippi, and it 
employs nearly all the industry of the people. The crop is 
about 350,000 bales, which is annually increasing. Tobacco 

5. By whom were the people harassed ? What is said of them ? 

6. Describe Mobile. Tuscaloosa. 7. Montgomery. Wetumpka and 
other towns. 

Mississippi. Q. — 1. What is this state remarkable for ? What has 
taken place since 1830. 2. What is the chief production? What 






1>1 


msst sotpt 



~~r 


sad szae « -iria 


jii^r 'v-r t ? irrer’T cnldvalEd- jci i_~r hctt abandoned. 
: —_ - .. _ 
fTi :;vn~ — 3 m:c ?.ifi<nenr jc stdcIt tbe 5dje. 

3. Sieae -■>> :e?n produced in. zze 5cctier^. co <n^zes. 

btir \:e '-nri? n:^s 3»:t ippor jd rm S^eet potatoes* ’•ifa 

J :._triT I" 

nr r r- rtT-iniffo za^e been projected 

-k X^sKssmn .s icw fnrr-y m»fer zie enncni ® i v :-ib pcpciu 
^nrr, T^ie n.rjen xnd rentrx*. puns it me 5Qi g ’v^rs klRij xt^ipeU 
jv ine Coacmv xza C uiiwi ir Tniiazs her nese zo.t» iear.j i_L 
zesncraed u zie Imnan z^mrcry 

5. Jocssatu m zie hmk it ze Fteari rr^r. is tae laaira^ rf zie 
mtH. I: 2 sikniBi xmi sTnni.rrs zie Sore Heuae, £ iz .idz z zij j r j* 

xnn sicitr paaiic 

i. Vienna _s zie n-r**sc nif 3icsc znjerzmr pia.ee :n zie sore, 
nailer wrij SCO niLes Xew O ttr«rr Iz carries :n x «nai 

erxhie iireet mnuneree vith. zie Atlantic pacts at zle Ukiitef Sto^f^ 


_ 

■» i i iny ana tffinstoi^ «. le inn— 


I*s mo. _nxiimi nee -s *ery e 

’wars me .L:e; (pdl M MPMlr _ - 

our*: it zie ziUT teslt in x xzri hrf it imm. Ak iet zim- 

me iurriiee ir Zie nfSL 


trnerT > 0t tiifliUi mm i. ft ^^rxr ** -*.n- 

nfV t&e -Z^raas * 4 Of >Lsassopi. T:e u-nen 

rirs * i Itecr.ix ixcsscn. i- Xafldiex. WM of Js ecnunersj-? 

































































154 


DESCRIPTIVE GEOGRAPHY 


7. Vicksburg is situated more than 500 miles from the sea. It is a 
flourishing place, and, like Natchez, carries on a direct trade with the 
eastern sections of the Union. Ships of large burthen are brought up 
to the town, from the Gulf of Mexico, by means of the powerful steam 
tow-boats used on the Mississippi river. 

8. Among other thriving places in the state, are Grand Gulf, on the 
Mississippi river, and Port Gibson, 7 miles from it, in the interior. 
Manchester, or Yazoo city, on the Yazoo, Grenada, on the Yalo Busha, 
and Aberdeen and Columbus, on the Tombigby river. The latter is the 
north-eastern emporium of the state. 


Map No. 8. — What state bounds Mississippi on the north ? Te. — 
On the south? La., G.-Mo.— On the east? Aa. — On the west? As., La. 
— What river separates it from Louisiana and Arkansas ? Mi. — On 
what river is Natchez ? Jackson? Grand Gulf? Vicksburg? Man¬ 
chester, or Yazoo city ? Grenada ? Columbus ? — What is the popu¬ 
lation of each of these towns ? — How many miles from the sea do 
stearn-boats ascend the Tombigby? Tallahatchee ? Yalo Busha? 
Big Black ? Pearl? — How far is Vicksburg from the sea? What 
kind of vessels ascend to it? In what county is Natchez? As.— 
Vicksburg ? Wn. — Jackson ? Hs. — Columbus ? Ls. — Grand 
Gulf? Ce. 

- 112 - 

LOUISIANA. 

1. The territory comprising this state, together with the 
vast region lying west of the Mississippi river, was formerly 
all called Louisiana, and was purchased from France by the 
United States’ Government in 1803. 

2. The country along the Mississippi in this state, is gene¬ 
rally lower than the surface of the river, and is protected by 
levees or embankments of earth, which extend for nearly 200 
miles. 

3. The great staples of Louisiana are sugar and cotton, but 
rice, corn, and tobacco, are also cultivated. A vast amount 
of capital is invested in the sugar business, in lands, slaves, 
&c., and the produce of that article has increased tenfold 
within twenty years. 

4. During the late war, a powerful British army invaded this state; 

7. Vicksburg ? How are ships brought up to this place ? 8. The other 

towns ? 

Louisiana. Q. — 1. What is said of the territory comprising this 
state? When was it purchased? 2. What is said of the country? 
3. What are the great staples ? 4. What took place during the lato 






LOUISIANA 


155 



Battle of New Orleans. 

but they were totally defeated by the American army,-under General 
Jackson, January 8th, 1815, and the country was abandoned by them 
shortly afterwards. 

5. New Orleans, the capital of the state, is the second commercial 
city in the Union; its inland and foreign trade is very great, and is in¬ 
creasing every year. From 1,500 to 2,000 flat-boats, 50 to 60 steam¬ 
boats, and a forest of the masts of sea vessels, may be seen nearly 
always lying along its levee. 

6. The produce that arrived at this place from the various states, See. 
watered by the Mississippi and its tributary streams, during the year 
1838, is estimated to amount in value to seventy-five millions of dollars; 
among which were 750,000 bales of cotton, 300,000 barrels of flour, 
50,000 hogsheads of sugar, and 40,000 hogsheads of tobacco. 

7. The city is built on level ground, and is several feet below the sur¬ 
face of the river at high water. It contains a number of public build¬ 
ings, some of which are splendid structures. The population during 
the winter season is from 40,000 to 50,000 greater than at other periods. 

8. The towns in Louisiana are all small; some of them, however, have 
considerable trade. Donaldsonville, Plaquemine, Baton Rouge, and 
Bayou Sara, are on the Mississippi river, and Alexandria and Natchi¬ 
toches on Red river. 

9. The great Raft, an immense accumulation of timber, which pre¬ 
vented navigation to the upper parts of Red river, has been lately cut 
through, and steam-boats can now ascend that stream several hundred 
miles further than formerly. 

war ? When were they defeated ? 5. Describe New Orleans. 6. What 
of the produce ? 7. How is the city built? What of the population? 

8. The other towns ? 9. The great raft. 
















DESCRIPTIVE GEOGRAPHY, 


156 


Map No. 8. — By what is Louisiana bounded on the north ? As., MI. 
— On the east ? Mi. — South ? G.-Mo. — West ? Ts. — What rivers 
separate Louisiana from Mississippi? Mi., PI. — What river from 
Texas? Se. — What two lakes are in the eastern part of the state? 
Pn., Be. — What two in the southern part ? Cu., Mu. — How long is 
the Mississippi? Red river? Washita? Sabine? Calcasiu ? Bayou 
Macon ? Bartholomew ? Some rivers are termed Bayous in Louisiana. 
What is the population of New Orleans ? Donaldsonville ? Baton 
Rouge ? Alexandria ? Natchitoches ? In what parishes are these situ¬ 
ated ? N.-Os., An., E.-B.-Re., Rs., Ns. — In what year was the battlb 

of New Orleans fought ? 

-113- 



WESTERN STATES. 

1. The Western States comprise Ohio, Kentucky, Tennes¬ 
see, Indiana, Illinois, Michigan, Missouri, and Arkansas, the 
organized territories of Wisconsin and Iowa, together with 
the Indian Territory, and the unorganized territories of Mis¬ 
souri and Oregon. 

2. From the great extent of this region, its climate pos¬ 
sesses considerable variety of temperature; the winters are 
more variable, and the quantity of snow is less than in the 
same parallels in the Atlantic States. 

3. The most striking features of this vast country are its 

Western States. Q .— 1. What do the Western States comprise? 
2. What is said of the climate ? The winters ? 3. The most striking 

















WESTERN STATES* 


157 

numerous rivers, towering forests, and extensive prairies. 
The latter are wide spreading plains, stretching farther than 
the eye can reach, destitute, for the most part, of trees, and 
covered with tall grass and flowering shrubs. 

4. That part of this region lying between the Rocky and 
Alleghany Mountains is often called the Mississippi Valley, 
from its being chiefly watered by that great river, and its 
tributary streams. These afford immense facilities for inter¬ 
nal commerce, and, in fact, constitute it one of the best 
watered districts on the face of the globe. 

5. There are, at present, on the western waters between 200 and 300 
steam-boats, many hundreds of arks or flat-boats, besides a multitude 
of smaller craft constantly engaged in the commerce of the country, 
and immense quantities of produce of various kinds are annually con¬ 
veyed by them to New Orleans. 

6. Lead, iron, coal, salt, and lime, abound in the Western 
States, and, probably, no region of equal extent in the world 
exhibits such a combination of mineral wealth and fertility 
of soil, united with such rare facilities of transportation. 

7. Cotton and tobacco are produced in the southern districts, 
while wheat, Indian-corn, hemp, oats, and barley, are exten¬ 
sively cultivated in the other parts. Cattle, hogs, and horses, 
are raised in abundance, and constitute an important part of 
the wealth of the people of these states. 

8. A considerable portion of the western country has been recently 
settled; but the cheapness of land, the fertility of the soil, and the 
general character of the climate, are causing a tide of emigration to 
flow, which is filling up the country with unexampled rapidity. 

9. A laudable zeal is manifested in the cause of education. The 
number of common schools is rapidly increasing, while colleges and the 
higher seminaries of learning are also multiplying. 

10. The population of the Western States and Territories is probably 
not less than four and a half millions, of which the negro slaves consti¬ 
tute about one-ninth part. Slavery is prevalent in Tennessee, Kentucky, 
Missouri, and Arkansas, but does not exist in the other states and 
territories. 

features ? What are prairies ? 4. What is part of this region called ? 
Why ? What do they afford ? 5. What is said of steam-boats, arks, 
&c. ? What is conveyed by them ? 6. What is said of lead, iron, &c. ? 

7. What is produced in the southern districts ? In other parts ? What 
of cattle, &c. ? 8. What has been recently settled ? What is filling 

up the country ? 9. What is manifested ? Of common schools, col¬ 
leges, &c. ? 10. Of the population? Where is slavery prevalent? 



158 


DESCRIPTIVE GEOGRAPHY. 



- 114- 

11. Nearly all the Indians in the United States are found within the 
limits of this quarter of the Union. Some of these are partially civil¬ 
ized, but a considerable number still remain unchanged ; and while the 
settlements, arts, and improvements of white men are narrowing their 
boundaries, they still retain their original savage character and condi¬ 
tion. 


Map No. 4. — Which is the largest of the Western States ? Mi. — 
The smallest ? Ia.—Which is the most northern ? Mn. — Southern ? 
As. — Eastern ? Oo. — Western ? Mi. — Which is the largest of the 
western territories ? On. — The most northern and western ? On. — 
The most eastern ? Wn. — Most southern ? In. — The western states 
and territories extend from latitude 33 degrees to about 54£. How 
much latitude then do they include ? They extend from about 4 de¬ 
grees of longitude to 56 degrees west from Washington. How much 


Indians viewing the improvements of white men. 


12. The Creeks, Choctaws, Cherokees, and other tribes now resident 
in the Indian Territory, and under the protection of the General Govern¬ 
ment, increase steadily in population and prosperity; while the Sioux, 
Riccarees, Black Feet, and other rude, roving bands of the Upper Mis¬ 
souri, are decreasing rapidly in number and importance. 

13. Within a few years, the small-pox has swept them by thousands 
from the face of the earth ; and tribes but lately numerous and powerful 
are now reduced to a few individuals. 


11. What is said of the Indians ? What is narrowing their bounda¬ 
ries ? What do they still retain ? 12. What of the Creeks, Choctaws, 

&c. ? The Sioux, Riccarees, & c. ? 13. What is said of the small-pox ? 
















OHIO. 



159 

longitude do they include ? What states and territories have the Mis¬ 
sissippi river for their western boundary ? Te., Ky., Is., Wn. — Which 
have the Mississippi for their eastern boundary ? As., Mi., Ia.—Which 
states have the Ohio for their southern boundary ? Oo., Ia., Is. — What 
state has the Ohio for its northern boundary ? Ky. — Which has the 
Ohio for its western boundary ? Va. — flow many miles is it by the 
scale from the mouth of Columbia river eastward to the Rocky Moun¬ 
tains ? How many miles is it from the Rocky Mountains to Lake 
Michigan, measured on the parallel of 44 degrees ? How many miles 
is it from the head of the Arkansas to the head of the Alleghany river ? 
This is about the greatest extent that can be measured through the cen¬ 
tre of the Mississippi valley east and west. How far is it from the 
head to the mouth of the Mississippi river in a straight line ? How far 
is it from the mouth of the Ohio river to the northern boundary of Illi¬ 
nois ? and from the same point, to the east boundary of Kentucky ? 
The states of Missouri and Indiana are about the same extent from 
north to south. How many miles is it ? 

- 115-- 


OHIO. 

1. This flourishing state, though settled in 1789, only 
fifty years ago, ranks next to Virginia in the number of its 
inhabitants; and its increase in wealth and importance is 
unequalled in the history of any other country. 

2. The southern section of Ohio is uneven and hilly; the 

Ohio. Q. — 1. When was this state settled ? How docs it rank ? 
2. What is said of it l How is it intersected ? 3. What are the staple 



















160 


DESCRIPTIVE GEOGRAPHY 


remainder is generally level, with extensive prairies in many 
parts. The whole state is intersected with numerous rivers, 
which afford a vast amount of water-power for mills, manu¬ 
factories, &c. 

3. The staple products are corn and wheat; but rye, oats, 
buckwheat, and tobacco, are extensively cultivated. Orchards 
flourish here, and produce the finest apples, and all the fruits 
of the Western States, in perfection. Horses, cattle, and 
hogs, are abundant, and thousands are every year driven to 
the eastern markets. 

4. Iron and coal are found in vast quantities, and salt 
springs are numerous. Manufactures are carried to a greater 
extent than in any other western state. They consist of cot¬ 
ton and woollen goods, with flour, paper, and steam machi¬ 
nery. 

5. The Ohio state canals were projected about the year_1823, and 
are, so far as completed, in successful operation. The influence of 
these works has, in many cases, enhanced four-fold the value of private 
property in and near the places where they are located, besides increas¬ 
ing greatly the commerce of the state. Various other canals and rail¬ 
roads are in the course of construction. 

6. Columbus, the capital of Ohio, is situated in a rich and beautiful 
district. It is regularly laid out, and contains several public buildings, 
churches, &c. 

7. Cincinnati is the largest and most important place in the western 
states. The growth of this city has been exceedingly rapid, and has 
kept pace with the increase of the state. It is regularly laid out: many 
of its private dwellings are elegant, its public edifices are numerous, 
and some of them are handsome specimens of architecture. 

8. This city carries on an immense trade both up and down the Ohio 
river, and the Miami canal which joins the former at this place. Pork 
is one of the chief articles of trade ; besides which, wheat, flour, whis¬ 
key, and a great variety of manufactured articles, are exported. 

9. Zanesville is an important place, and is noted for its flour-mills 
and various manufacturing establishments. Cleveland is the principal 
port on Lake Erie, and is a place of extensive business. Steubenville, 
Dayton, Portsmouth, Toledo, and Sandusky, are all thriving and flour¬ 
ishing towns. 


products ? What is said of horses, &c. ? 4. Iron and coal ? Manu¬ 
factures? 5. State canals? What has been their influence? Other 
canals and rail-roads ? 6. Describe Columbus. 7. Cincinnati. How 

is it laid out? 8. What does it carry on? What are exported? 9. 
Describe Zanesville. Cleveland. Steubenville, and the other towns. 



KENTUCKY 


161 


Map No. 9. — What bounds Ohio on the north? Mn., L.-Ee.— 
South? Ky., Va.— East? Va., Pa. — West? Ia. — What river 
forms its south boundary ? Oo. — What rivers flow into Lake Erie? 
Me., Sy., Hn., Ca. — Which flow into the Ohio river? Mi., L.-Mi., 
So., Mm. — What is the population of Cincinnati ? Zanesville ? 
Cleveland ? Steubenville ? Columbus ? Chillicothe ? Dayton ? Ports¬ 
mouth ? In what counties are these places ? Hn., Mm., Ca., Jn., Fn., 
Rs., My., So. — How long is the Ohio ? Maumee ? Miami ? Scioto ? 
Muskingum ? What road extends through the state from east to 
west ? Nl. 

- 116 - 



Early Settlers attacked by Indians. 


KENTUCKY. 

1. This state was first settled by the celebrated Daniel 
Boon and others, in 1769. It formed for a time part of 
Virginia, but in 1790 a separation took place, and two years 
afterwards Kentucky was admitted into the Union. 

2. The surface in the eastern section of the state is hilly and 
undulating, but in the western it is level, occasionally extend¬ 
ing into prairies. Much of the soil of Kentucky is celebrated 
for its fertility. 

3. The principal products are hemp, tobacco, wheat, and 


Kentucky. Q. — 1. By whom was this state settled? What did it 
form ? What took place ? 2. What is said of the surface ? Of the 
11 









162 


DESCRIPTIVE GEOGRAPHY, 


Indian corn. Cattle, horses, and hogs, are raised to a great 
extent, and numbers are annually carried into the neighbour¬ 
ing states. 

4. Salt springs or licks are numerous, from which large 
quantities of salt are made. Great numbers of the bones of 
the mammoth have also been found in some of them. 

5. There are several extensive caves found in this state that are great 
curiosities, of which the Mammoth Cave is the most remarkable, having 
been explored to a distance of several miles from its mouth. The earth 
in some of these caves is strongly impregnated with nitre or saltpetre, 
and considerable quantities of that article were made from it during the 
late war. 

6. Until the year 1795 the people suffered greatly from Indian hos¬ 
tilities ; many had fallen in battle in their fields or houses, by the hands 
of their savage foes; but since that period, Kentucky has advanced 
rapidly in population, wealth, and importance. 

7. Frankfort, the capital of the state, stands on the right bank of the 
Kentucky river, in a highly picturesque situation. Lexington, the old¬ 
est town in the state, is situated in the midst of a rich and well culti¬ 
vated district. It is the seat of Transylvania University. 

8. Louisville is the principal city of Kentucky, and one of the most 
important places in the Western Slates. It carries on an extensive 
trade. Many thousands of flat-boats arrive here, yearly, from all parts 
of the upper Ohio, and steam-boats are daily arriving and departing in 
every direction. The town is well built, and regularly laid out; with 
spacious, straight, and well-paved streets, running parallel with the river, 
intersected by others meeting them at right angles. The landing is 
convenient for boats. 

9. Maysville is a flourishing commercial place. Newport and Co¬ 
vington, both opposite Cincinnati, are thriving towns, and contain some 
manufactures of cotton-bagging. 


Map No. 9. — What states bound Kentucky on the north ? Is., Ia., 
Oo. — South? Te. — East? Va. — West? Mi., As. — Wdiat river 
forms its northern boundary ? Oo. — Its western ? Mi. — What river 
and mountains are its eastern boundary ? B.-Sy., Cd. — Which arc the 

principal rivers in the state ? Te., Cd., Gn., Ky., Lg. — Tell the lengths 
of all these. On what river is Frankfort ? Louisville ? Maysville ? 
Paducah ? What is the population of each of these towns ? Of 
Lexington? Which is the most northern county? Be. — Eastern? 
Fd. — Western ? Hn. 


soil ? 3. The principal products ? Cattle, &.c. ? 4. Of salt springs ? 

What has been found in some of them ? 5. What is said of the caves? 
Of the earth in them ? 6. Of the people ? 7. Describe Frankfort, 

Lexington. 8. Louisville. 9. Maysville, and other towns. 




TENNESSEE. 1G3 


117 



Tennessee Iron Works—View of the Cumberland Mountains. 

TENNESSEE. 


1. The country comprising the state of Tennessee, was 
originally a part of North Carolina. In 1790, that state 
ceded it to the General Government. In the same year it 
was organized into the Territory south-west of the Ohio 
river; and in 1796 became an independent state. 

2. West Tennessee comprises that part of the state lying 
between the Mississippi andTennessee rivers. Middle Tennessee 
extends eastward to the Cumberland mountains; and East 
Tennessee is situated between the latter and the eastern limits 
of the state. 

3. The climate is mild, pleasant, and salubrious, and the 
soil generally fertile and productive. 

Agriculture is the chief employment of the people. Cot¬ 
ton and tobacco are extensively cultivated; besides Indian' 
corn, wheat, rye, hemp, &c. 

4. The mountains contain numerous caverns, which abound in 
nitrous earth, from which saltpetre is made. Iron, gold, coal, and salt, 

Tennessee. Q. — 1. What was Tennessee originally ? When did it 
become an independent state? 2. Where is West Tennessee? Mid¬ 
dle Tennessee ? East Tennessee ? 3. What is said of the climate ? 
Of agriculture ? 4. What do the mountains contain ? What are the 


























1G4 


DESCRIPTIVE GEOGRAPHY 


are the chief minerals. The iron made in the state gives employment 
to a number of furnaces, rolling-mills, and nail-works. 

5. Nashville, the capital, is situated in a fertile and picturesque dis¬ 
trict, and contains a number of elegant public and private buildings. 
The trade is active and extensive. 

Knoxville, on the Holston river, was the first seat of government of 
the state. 

G. Franklin and Columbia, south of Nashville, Bolivar on theHatchee, 
and Memphis on the Mississippi river, are among the most flourishing 
towns in Tennessee. 


Map No. 8. — What state bounds Tennessee on-the north ? Ky. — 
On the south? Mi., Aa., Ga.—East? N.-Ca. — West? As.— 
What river separates this state from Arkansas? Mi. — Which are the 
two principal rivers ? Te., Cd. — Name the head branches of the Ten¬ 
nessee ? PI., Ch., Iin., F.-Bd. — Tell how long all these rivers are ? 
How many miles from the sea do steam-boats navigate the Hatchee, 
Cumberland, and Holston rivers? To what towns do they ascend? 
Br., Co., Ke. — What mountains separate Tennessee from North Car¬ 
olina ? Ay. — The Allegheny mountains, in this part, are distinguished 
by the local names of Stone Mt., Smoky Mt., &c.— What mountains 
between the Tennessee and Cumberland rivers ? Cd.— How high are 
they? What is the population of Nashville ? Memphis? Knoxville? 
Columbia ? In what counties are each of these towns ? Dn., Sy., 
Kx., My. 

- 118 - 

MICHIGAN. 

1. This state comprises two large peninsulas, one of which 
is situated between Lakes Huron and Michigan, and the other 
between Lakes Superior and Michigan. 

2. The former contains the white population of the state, 
while the latter is inhabited almost solely by a few Indians, 
and is but little known. 

3. The settled part of Michigan is level, fertile, and highly 
productive. Large crops of wheat, corn, oats, and barley, 
are obtained; while apples, pears, and other fruits, grow in 
abundance. 

4. The great lakes by which Michigan is surrounded, are 


chief minerals ? What is said of iron ? 5. Describe Nashville. Knox¬ 
ville. 6. Franklin, and other towns. 

Michigan. Q. — 1. What does this state comprise? How are they 
situated ? 2. What does the former contain ? The latter ? 3. What 

is said of the settled part ? What are obtained ? 4. How is Michigan 






MICHIGAN. 


105 



Perry’s Victory. 


navigable by vessels of the largest size, and even naval battles 
have been fought on them. Perry’s victory was gained within 
the limits of this state, September, 1814. 

5. Numerous steam-boats and other craft are constantly employed in 
the trade of the country, and in conveying emigrants from the east to 
the west. 

6. Detroit, the capital, and the principal place in the state, is admirably 
situated for commerce, of which its share is already extensive. The 
city is regularly laid out, and contains a number of handsome public 
buildings. The population is at least four times greater than in 1830. 

7. Monroe City, near the mouth of the River Raisin, is an important 
and thriving place ; it is a great thoroughfare for emigrants going to the 
interior of the state. Mackinaw, on an island at the entrance to Lake 
Michigan, and St. Mary’s, at Fort Brady, are the most northern settle¬ 
ments in the state ; the former was long noted for its fur trade, which 
of late years has been on the decline. Mount Clemens, Tecumseh, and 
Ann-Arbour, in the eastern, and Niles and St. Joseph, in the western 
section of Michigan, arc all flourishing towns. 

Map No. 4. — What lake bounds Michigan on the north ? Sr. — On 
the east ? Iln. — West ? Mn. — What states on the south ? Ia., Oo.— 
What rivers separate Michigan from Wisconsin ? Ml., Me. — What 
country east of Michigan ? U.-Ca. — What territory in the west ? Wn. 
— Where is Mackinaw ? Fort Brady ? 

surrounded ? What has taken place on them ? 5. What is said of 

steamboats, &.c. ? 6. Describe Detroit. 7. Monroe city. Mackinaw, 

&c. Mount Clemens, and other towns. 






















1GG DESCRIPTIVE GEOGRAPHY. 

Map No. 7. —What lake lies between Lakes Huron and Erie ? S^Cr. 
— What river unites it to Lake Huron ? S.-Cr. — Which to Lake Erie ? 
Dt. — What is the population of Detroit ? Monroe ? Niles ? To what 
p'ace on the St. Joseph’s river do steam-boats ascend ? How far from 
the sea is it ? 

- 119 - 



Battle of Tippecanoe. 

INDIANA. 


1. Indiana is the smallest in extent of the Western States; 
it is similar to Ohio in soil and surface, but contains a larger 
proportion of prairie land. 

2. The labour of the farmer is here amply repaid with 
luxuriant crops of wheat, Indian corn, rye, and oats, which, 
with beef, pork, &c., are the chief articles of exportation. 

3. The mineral resources of Indiana have been but little 
attended to; but coal, iron, lime, and salt, are known to 
abound, and Epsom salts are found in a cave near Cory don. 

4. An extensive system of canals and rail-roads has been adopted by 
this state, which, when completed, will be of immense advantage to the 
inhabitants. 

5. The people of Indiana were greatly harassed by the Indians un- 

Indiana. Q. — 1. What is Indiana? In what is it similar to Ohio? 
2. How is the farmer repaid ? 3. What are the minerals ? 4. What 

of canals and rail-roads ? 5. By whom were the people harassed ? 


















ILLINOIS 


167 


til the year 1811, when General Harrison defeated the Shawanese Pro¬ 
phet, after a gallant contest, near the mouth of the Tippecanoe river. 

6. Indianapolis, the capital of the state, stands on a fine plain near 
the White river, and is laid out with much taste and regularity. It 
contains several handsome public buildings. 

7. New Albany is the largest town in the state; it carries on a con¬ 
siderable trade. Madison and Jeffersonville, both on the Ohio, are 
flourishing towns. Vevay is settled by a colony of industrious Swiss, 
who cultivate extensive vineyards, and make considerable quantities of 
excellent wine. 

8. Vincennes is the oldest town in Indiana. New Harmony, Terre 
Haute, Lafayette, and Logansport, on the Wabash river, are all thriving 
towns. Michigan City, at the head of Lake Michigan, South Bend on 
the SL Joseph’s, and Fort Wayne on the Maumee river, are the princi¬ 
pal places in the north part of the state. 


Map No. 9. — What state on the north ? Mn. — On the south ? Ky. 
— East ? Oo. — West ? Is. —Which river on the south ? Oo. —On 
the west? Wh. — What river flows into Lake Erie? Me. — What 
rivers flow into the Wabash ? El., Se., My., Te., We. How long are 
the foregoing rivers ? How far from the sea do steam-boats navigate 
the Wabash ? East fork of White river? What is the population of 
New Albany? Madison? Rushville ? Indianapolis? Vincennes? 
Terre Haute ? Lafayette ? Logansport ? In what counties are all 
these towns ? Fd., Jn., Rh., Mn., Kx., Vo., Te., Cs. — In what year 
was the battle of Tippecanoe fought ? 

- 120 - 

ILLINOIS. 

1. Illinois is one of the most fertile states in the Union. 
It has advanced in population and importance with uncom¬ 
mon rapidity, and has, of late, excited great attention. 

2. It consists chiefly of rich and extensive prairies, and is 
watered by a number of beautiful streams, of which, the 
Illinois, and some others, are navigated by steam-boats. 

3. Agriculture is the chief and most profitable employ¬ 
ment. The principal products are corn, wheat, rye, hemp, 
and tobacco. Cattle, horses, and swine, abound, and are 
raised on the fertile prairies with but little trouble. 

6. Describe Indianapolis. 7. New Albany. Madison. 8. Vincennes, 
and the other towns. 

Illinois. Q. — 1. What is Illinois? 2. Of what does it consist? 
3. What is said of agriculture ? Cattle, &c, ? 4. Of minerals ? Tho 






168 


DESCRIPTIVE GEOGRAPHY 



Illinois College in the distance. 


4. The minerals are coal, iron, and lead. The last is the most 
abundant. The lead-mines around Galena, with those of the adjoining 
Territory of Wisconsin, are among the richest in the world, and cover 
a region of country hundreds of square miles in extent. 

5. The canal to connect Lake Michigan with the Illinois river is one 
of the most important works of the kind in the United States. Nu¬ 
merous rail-roads, to intersect the state in various directions, are in 
progress. 

6. The city of Chicago is the most important place in Illinois. It 
has become within a few years the centre of a large and growing trade. 
Numerous steam-boats, ships, brigs, and other vessels, are constantly 
arriving with goods, emigrants, &c., and departing with the produce of 
the country. 

Vandalia, the capital of the state, is a small town on the Kaskaskia 
river, containing about 100 houses. 

7. Peoria, Beardstown, and Naples, on the Illinois river, and Quincy 
and Alton, on the Mississippi, are all flourishing towns. Springfield 
and Jacksonville, near the centre of the state, are thriving places. The 
latter has in its vicinity Illinois College, the principal literary institu¬ 
tion in the state; and Springfield has been chosen by the Legislature to 
be the capital, after the year 1840. 


Map No. 9. — What bounds Illinois on the north? W.-Ty.—On 
the south? Ky.— East? Ia. — West? Mi., I.-Ty. — What river 
on the west ? Mi. — On the south ? Oo. — On the east ? Wh. — 


lead-mines ? 5. Canals ? Rail-roads ? 6. Describe Chicago, Vandalia. 
7. Peoria, Beardstown, &c. Quincy, Alton, Springfield, Jacksonville. 













MISSOURI. 


169 

What rivers flow into the Mississippi ? Rk., Is., Ka. — What rivers 
into the Illinois? Ke., D.-Ps., Fx., Vn., Mw„ Sn., Sn. — What rivers 
flow into the Wabash ? Vn., Es., L.-Wh.— How long is each of the 
foregoing rivers ? What lake on the north-cast ? Mn. — How many 
inhabitants has Chicago ? Galena? Peoria? Quincy? Springfield? 
Jacksonville ? Alton ? In what counties are these towns ? Ck., Js., 
Pa., As., Sn., Mn. Mn.— How far from the sea do steam-boats ascend 
the Illinois ? Rock ? and Sangamon rivers ? 


121 



MISSOURI* 

1. Missouri is, next to Virginia, the largest state in the 
Union. The face of the country is diversified with hills, 
plains, and prairies, of which the latter predominate. 

2. Wheat, Indian-corn, hemp, and tobacco, are largely 
cultivated, with some cotton in the southern part of the state. 
This is an admirable grazing country, and vast herds of 
horses, cattle, and hogs, are raised in it. 

3. Missouri is rich in minerals: the lead-mines have been 
worked for more than 100 years, and produce at present 
several million pounds of lead annually. 

4. The Pilot Knob and the Iron Mountain are immense masses of 

Missouri. Q. — 1. What is Missouri ? What is said of the country ? 
2. What are cultivated ? Raised ? 3. What of the minerals ? 4. De- 


* Missouri, Mis-su'-re. 





















170 


DESCRIPTIVE GEOGRAPHY 


nearly pure iron, and surpass every thing of the kind found in any part 
of the world. Copper, zinc, and coal, also abound, and salt is made to 
some extent. 

5. There is a considerable trade carried on between this state and 
Santa Fe, in New Mexico. The traders form caravans of numerous in¬ 
dividuals, with many horses and wagons. They carry various articles 
of merchandise, and being frequently attacked by Indians, defend them¬ 
selves with their rifles. 

6. Jefferson City, the capital, is on the south side of the Missouri 
river ; it is a small town, and contains the State House and Penitentiary. 

The city of St. Louis is the largest place west of the Mississippi river. 
It is very favourably situated for trade, and has an extensive commerce. 
Numerous steam-boats are constantly departing for and arriving from 
nearly all parts of the Mississippi valley. Though this city is 1,200 
milts from the sea, yet its enterprising merchants are about to establish 
a direct trade with Europe, and the Atlantic ports of the Union. 

7. St. Charles, Franklin, Booneville* Lexington, and Liberty, are all 
on or near the Missouri river; they are small but thriving towns: the 
last is the most western town in which a newspaper is printed in the 
United States. It is 1142 miles from Washington City. 


Map No. 9. — What territory on the north ? I.-Ty. — On the west ? 
I.-'I’y.—What states on the east? Is., Ky.—South? As.—What river 
on the east ? Mi.—On the west, and in the centre ? Mi.—What rivers 
flow into the Missouri ? L.-Pe, Gd., Cn., Oe., Ge. — Into the Missis¬ 
sippi ? St., Mi., Me. — What rivers flow into Arkansas? W.-Wr., 
B.-Bk., Ct., We.— What mountains in the south-west? Ok. — How 
high are they ? What mines in Washington county ? Ld. — What 
mountains ? In., P.-Kb. — How many inhabitants has St. Louis ? St. 
Charles ? Palmyra ? In what counties are these towns ? S.-Ls., S.-Cs., 
Mn. — In which is Jefferson city ? Ce. — Booneville ? Cr. — Lexing¬ 
ton? Le.—Liberty? Cy. 


- 122 - 

ARKANSAS. 

1. Arkansas is one of the latest formed of the American 
states, having been admitted into the Union in 1836. The 
eastern part of the country along the Mississippi is low and 
marshy; but the interior is elevated, healthy, and pleasant. 

scribe Pilot Knob and the Iron Mountain. 5. What trade, &c. ? What 
do the traders form ? 6. Describe Jefferson City. St. Louis. 7. St. 

Charles, and the other towns. 

Arkansas. Q. — 1. What is said of Arkansas? Of the country? 


* Booneville , Boon'-vil. 








WISCONSIN TERRITORY 


171 


2. The land bordering on the rivers is generally fertile, and 
produces abundant crops of cotton and corn. Wheat and 
grain grow well in the upper country, while peaches, plums, 
and other fruits, are raised in abundance. 

3. This state has considerable advantages for commerce. 
Nearly every part of it is intersected by streams that flow 
into the Mississippi river. Steam-boats ascend the Arkansas 
during high water nearly 600 miles above its mouth, and the 
Red, White, St. Francis, and Washita rivers, are all more or 
less navigable. 

4. The hot springs, about fifty miles west of Little Rock, are among 
the chief curiosities of the country ; the water of some of them is sufi 
ficiently hot to boil an egg in fifteen minutes. They are very numerous, 
and much resorted to by invalids, who generally find the use of the 
water beneficial to their health. 

5. Little Rock, the capital of the state, situated on the Arkansas 
river, about 300 miles above its mouth, is the most important town. 
The chief of the others are, Arkansas, Butesville, Helena, Fulton, and 
Fayetteville. These arc all of limited population. 


Map No. 8. — What bounds Arkansas on the north ? Mi. — On the 
south? La. — East? Te., Mi.— West? In. Ty.— What river sepa¬ 
rates Arkansas from Tennessee and Mississippi? Mi. — What three 
rivers flow into the Mississippi ? As., We., S.-Fs. — What are the two 
principal rivers that flow into Louisiana ? Rd., Wa. —Tell the lengths 
of the foregoing rivers. How far arc the Arkansas, White, Washita, and 
Red rivers, navigable for steam-boats ? Name the places where the 
navigation ends. F.-Gn., Be., E.-Fe., Jo. — In what county is Little 
Rock? Pi. —Fort Smith? Cd. —Fulton? Hd. — Fayetteville? 
Wn. — Batesvillo ? Ie. — Helena ? Ps. 

- 123 - 

WISCONSIN TERRITORY. 

1. Wisconsin formed, until the year 1836, the western 
division of Michigan Territory. A large portion of it is but 
little known ; and it is, for the most part, still in the occupan¬ 
cy of the Indians. 

2. It is yet but thinly settled by a white population ; but its 

2. Productions? 3. Commerce? Steam-boats? 4. Hot springs? 
5. Describe Little Rock, and other towns. 

Wisconsin Territory. Q. — 1. What did Wisconsin form ? What is 
said of it? 2. How is it settled? What are attracting emigrants? 




172 DESCRIPTIVE GEOGRAPHY. 

great mineral resources and fertile soil are attracting numer¬ 
ous emigrants from the eastern part of the Union. 

3. This country is rich in mineral products. Lead is found 
in great quantities, and copper and iron also abound. The 
principal trade of Wisconsin consists in the exporting of lead 
and other products, to the various markets on the Mississippi 
and Ohio rivers. 

4. Madison city, the capital of Wisconsin, is situated about half way 
between the Mississippi river and Lake Michigan. Though but lately 
laid out, a number of buildings have been erected. Milwaukee, Racine, 
Navarino, Mineral Point, Prairie* du Chien, and Cassville, are the other 
principal towns. 


Chippeway Bark Lodge. Birch Bark Canoe. 

5. The chief Indian tribes in this territory are the Chippeways and 
the Mennomonies. The former subsist mostly on the wild rice with 
which the numerous lakes abound. They make lodges and canoes of 
birch bark, but have not much mechanical ingenuity. The Menno¬ 
monies are superior in skill to the Chippeways; they prepare belts, 
moccasins, sheaths, &c. very neatly, and ornament them with beads 
and porcupine quills. 

Map No. 4. — What bounds Wisconsin on the north? B.-Aa.— 
South? Is.—East? Mn.—West? I.-Ty.—What river forms nearly 
the whole of the western boundary? Mi. — What rivers flow into 
Lake Superior? S.-Ls., Ml. — Into Green Bay? Me.— Into the 
Mississippi river? Wn., Rm. — What lakes in Wisconsin? Rd., 
St., Pn., Wo. — What lakes on the east ? Sr., Mn. — What lakes form 
part of the north and eastern boundary? Ws., Ry., Sr., Mn. — How 
far from the sea can steam-boats ascend the Mississippi river ? 

Map No. 9.— In what county is the capital? De.— Milwaukie ? 
Me. — Cassville ? Gt. — Prairie du Chien ? Cd. — How far from the 
sea do steam-boats ascend the Wisconsin? Rock River? 

3. What is said of the mineral products ? Of the trade ? 4. Describe 

Madison city, Milwaukie, and the other towns. 5. Which are the 
chief Indian tribes ? Describe the Chippeways. The Mennomonies. 




* Prairie da Chien, Pray'-re-du-Sheen'. 













IOWA TERRITORY. 173 


- 124 —-- 

IOWA TERRITORY. 

1. Iowa Territory was organized by Congress in 1838. 
During the two preceding years, it formed the western division 
of Wisconsin. 

2. The country, so far as it has been explored, is beautiful 
in appearance, and of uncommon fertility of soil. Most 
luxuriant crops of corn, wheat, and oats, are produced. 

3. Lead is the principal mineral. It is found in great 
abundance ; and the finest lead-mines in the United States are 
those worked in the vicinity of Dubuque.* Coal, iron, and 
limestone, also abound. 

4. The towns being all of recent formation, are yet small, though 
most of them are thriving and flourishing. Burlington, on the Missis¬ 
sippi river, is the seat of government. It was laid out in 1834: it is 
situated in a fertile district, and has considerable trade. 

5. Dubuque, the principal town in the Territory, is in the centre of 
the mining district of Iowa, and contains a number of stores and tav¬ 
erns, with several handsome public buildings. Peru, Fort Madison, and 
Monroe, are among the principal of the other towns. 



6. The Sioux, Winncbagocs, Iowas, and Sacs and Foxes, are the 
Indian tribes now resident in this Territory. The Sioux are one of the 
most powerful tribes within the limits of the United States. They live 
chiefly on the prairies, making lodges of Buffalo skins, and employing 

Iowa Territory. Q.— 1. When was Iowa Territory organized ? 2. 

What is said of the country ? 3. What is the principal mineral ? 4. 

What is said of the towns ? 5. Which is the principal town ? 6. What 


* Dubuque, Du-book'. 









174 


DESCRIPTIVE GEOGRAPHY 


dogs to carry burdens. The flesh of these animals is considered by 
them a great delicacy; and a feast of dogs’ meat is the greatest mark 
of attention they can pay a stranger. 

Map No. 4.—What bounds Iowa on the north ? B.-Aa. — South ? 
Mi. — East ? Wn. — West ? M.-Ty., I.-Ty. — What river forms the 

east boundary? Mi. — The west? Mi. — What rivers flow north? 
Rd., Me. — Into the Missouri river ? Js., Sx. — Which flows into the 
Mississippi ? S.-Ps., Ia., Ds. — How long are the Missouri, Mississippi, 

Red, St. Peter’s, Iowa, and Des Moines rivers? From what lake does 
the Mississippi river flow ? Ia. — What Indian tribes in this Territory ? 
Ms., As., Sx., Ws., Ps., Ss., and Fs. 

Map No. 9. — In what county is Burlington ? Ds. — To what dis¬ 
tance from the sea do steam-boats ascend the Des Moines river? 


125 



Emigrant Indians landing at Fort Gibson. 

INDIAN TERRITORY. 


1. The Indian Territory is the country assigned by the 
United States’ government for the future residence of those 
Indians who have from time to time emigrated from the east¬ 
ern parts of the Union. 

2. The population numbers about 70,000, of whom two- 

Indian tribes reside in Iowa ? Describe the Sioux, (pronounced Soos.) 
What is considered by them a great delicacy ? 

Indian Territory. Q. — l. What is the Indian Territory? 2. What 

























MISSOURI TERRITORY, 


175 


thirds have emigrated from the states east of the Mississippi 
river; the remainder appertain to tribes long resident in this 
region. 

3. The Choctaws, Creeks, Cherokees, and Shawnees are 
the most advanced towards civilization of any of the Indian 
tribes in this quarter. They have generally good houses, 
well-tilled fields, and own horses and cattle to some extent 
They have also native mechanics and merchants among 
them. 

4. The Aboriginal Indians consist, .for the most part, of Pawnees, 
Osages, Konzas, Omahas, &c. They still retain their original savage 
habits unchanged, and live mostly by hunting. 

5. In several of the tribes of this territory, a number of missionaries 
reside, who have improved the moral and spiritual condition of.these 
people. Among the Shawnees, the Baptists have established a printing- 
office, from which have been issued school-books, and collections of sa¬ 
cred poetry, in several Indian languages. A monthly journal, and 
annual register, are also printed here. 


Map No. 4. — How is the Indian Territory bounded on the north ? 
M.-Ty.—South? Ts., N.-Mo.—East? I.-Ty., Mi., As.—West? Mo. 
What are the principal rivers that flow through it ? Pe., Ks., As., Cn., 
Rd.—How long are these rivers ? What United States’ forts are in this 
territory ? Lh., Gn., Tn.—On what river is the Council Bluffs ? Mi.— 
What desert in the western part of the territory ? G.-An.—What moun¬ 
tains form part of its western boundary ? Ry. — Where is Long’s 
Peak ? James Peak ? How high are they ? Name the Indian tribes 
wholly resident in the Indian Territory. Os., Os., Ks., Ds., Ss., Ks., 
Os., Cs., Cs., Cs. — Name those that are partly so. Of the latter there 
are three tribes. Ps., Ks., P.-Ps. 


-126- 

MISSOURI TERRITORY. 

1. Missouri Territory is a vast wilderness, thinly in¬ 
habited only by different tribes of Indians. It consists of 
extensive prairies, over which roam countless droves of buf¬ 
falo, elk, deer, and wild horses. 


is the number of the population, &c. 3. Name the tribes most ad¬ 

vanced towards civilization. Describe their condition. 4. What do 
the Aboriginal Indians consist of ? What do they still retain ? 
5. What have the missionaries done ? What have the Baptists estab¬ 
lished ? What has been issued from it ? 

Missouri Territory Q. — 1. What is Missouri territory? Of what 






176 


DESCRIPTIVE GEOGRAPHY 



White traders bartering with the Indians. 



2 . On the western frontier the Rocky Mountains rise up to 
a great height, and have their tops covered with perpetual 

snow. Among these 
the grizzly bear is 
found: he is the 
largest and fiercest 
animal of his kind, 
and is peculiar to 
North America. 

3. This region is 
visited by the white 
traders, who barter 
with the Indians for 
the skins of buffaloes, 
bears, beavers, &c., taken by them in hunting. There are 
also many white trappers and hunfers, who live like the In¬ 
dians, and are absent from the settlements frequently for three 
or four years at a time. 


Grizzly Bear. 


4. The principal native tribes are the Pawnees, Sioux, Riccarees, 


does it consist ? 2. What is said of the Rocky Mountains ? Grizzly 

bear ? 3. Of the white traders ? White trappers and hunters ? 4. Na¬ 
tive tribes ? What of their habits, &c. 














OREGON TERRITORY 


177 



Crow, and Black Feet Indians.* Most of them are roving in their 
habits, and being in possession of an ample store of horses, roam from 
place to place, in quest of buffalo and other game. 

Map No. 4. — What bounds this territory on the north ? B.-Aa — 
South? I.-Ty.— East? I.-Ty. — West? O-Ty.— What mountains 
separate it from Oregon territory ? Ry. — What river from Iowa ter¬ 
ritory ? Mi. — From the Indian territory? Pe. — How long is the 
Missouri? Platte? Yellow Stone ? Big Horn ? Tongue? and Run¬ 
ning-Water rivers? What hills west of the Missouri river? Bk.— 
What tribes inhabit this territory ? B.-Ft., Cw., Ms., Rs., Ss., Ss., Ps., 

As., Ps. — How many miles from the sea have steam-boats ascended in 
this territory ? 

- 127 - 


* For several years past the small-pox has fearfully desolated this region: 
some of the most powerful of the native tribes have lost, by its ravages, thou¬ 
sands of their population, and have become almost extinct. The Mandan 
nation were in a short time reduced from 1,600 to 31 individuals; these have 
incorporated themselves with the Riccarees, and their race has ceased to exist 
as a distinct tribe. 

12 


Missionary preaching to the Indians. 

OREGON TERRITORY. 

1. Oregon Territory is the most western part of the 
United States. It extends from the Rocky Mountains to the 
Pacific Ocean, and contains an area greater than that of the 
whole of the Southern States. 


Oregon Territory. Q. — 1. What is Oregon Territory ? How far does 
















178 


DESCRIPTIVE GEOGRAPHY 


2. The climate is said to be more mild than in the same 
latitude on the eastern side of the continent. In many parts 
the soil is fertile, and well adapted to farming. Wheat, corn, 
fruits, and vegetables, are raised of excellent quality. Pine 
trees of enormous bulk grow on the banks of the Columbia 
river, and many of them attain a height of 250 feet. 

3. Though claimed by the United States, the territory is at 
present actually in possession of Great Britain. The traders 
of the “ Hudson’s Bay Company” have established forts at 
various points, and exercise an almost unlimited control over 
the natives. Forts Vancouver, Wallah-Wallah, and Colville, 
are the chief trading stations. 

4. At Fort Vancouver is a village containing fifty houses, with 800 
inhabitants. From this place a direct trade is carried on with the 
Sandwich Islands and Great Britain, which employs several vessels, be¬ 
sides a steam-boat. About 3000 acres of land are under cultivation at 
this settlement. 

5. The inhabitants of the territory are reckoned to amount to 80,000. 
They consist of a number of small Indian tribes, with the few white 
traders and hunters attached to the “Hudson Bay Company.” There 
are also several American missionaries in the territory, endeavouring to 
spread the light of the gospel among the Indians. 

6. Animals of various kinds abound, whose skins and furs form 
the chief articles of export. The sea-otter is found on the coast, and 
the hair-seal in the Columbia river. Salmon and sturgeon are the fish 
mostly used for food. They exist in great abundance in all the princi¬ 
pal streams. 


Map No. 3. — What bounds this territory on the north ? B.-Aa. — 
South? Mo. — East? B.-Aa., and the Missouri Territory. — What 
bounds it on the west? P.-On. — What mountains on the east ? Ry. 
— Tell the highest of these. Bn., Hr. — Their heights. What country 
in the northern part of the territory ? N.-Ca. — The principal islands ? 
Q.-Cs., Vs. — How long are they ? The chief rivers ? Ca., Ls., Cs., 
Fs. Their lengths ? 

Map No. 4. — What are the seven chief Indian tribes in Oregon Ter¬ 
ritory ? Cs., Ss., Ss., Fs., Ns., Ch., Ss. — What mountains in the west¬ 
ern part ? Os., Jn., Hd., Rr. —How high are the two last ? 


it extend ? What does it contain ? 2. What is said of the climate ? 
Soil ? Pine trees ? 3. In whose possession is it ? What is said of the 

Hudson’s Bay Company? Which are the chief trading stations? 
4. What of Fort Vancouver ? What does the trade employ ? 5. What 

is said of the inhabitants ? Of what do they consist ? What of the 
missionaries ? 6. Of the animals ? Salmon, &c. ? 




TEXAS 


179 



128 


View on the Prairies of Texas—Catching wild horses. 

REPUBLIC OF TEXAS. 

1. Texas formed, in conjunction with Coahuila, one of the 
states of the Mexican Republic. In 1836, the people de¬ 
clared themselves independent, and adopted a form of govern¬ 
ment, with a President and Congress, similar to that of the 
United States. 

2. The climate is mild and healthful. The face of the 
country consists chiefly of vast prairies, the soil of which is 
exceedingly fertile, and produces in abundance cotton, tobacco, 
sugar, rice, wheat, &c. 

3. Texas is one of the finest countries in the world for 
raising cattle. Pasturage being very plentiful, they increase 
rapidly, and great numbers of them are driven every year 
into the United States, for sale. 

4. Vast herds of buffalo, deer, and mustangs or wild horses, roam 
over the unsettled prairies of the interior. Numbers of the latter are 
taken with a leather thong or rope, with a running noose at the end of 
it, and being properly broke are rendered serviceable, either as draught 
or saddle horses. 


Texas. Q. — 1. What did Texas form ? In what year did the people 
declare their independence ? What have they adopted ? 2. What is said 
of the climate ? Face of the country? Soil? 3. What is Texas ? 4. What 




















DESCRIPTIVE GEOGRAPHY. 


180 

5. The inhabitants of Texas are nearly all Anglo-Americans, who 
have emigrated from the United States. There are, also, some Mexican 
Creoles, Negro slaves, and Indians. The whole amounts, probably, to 
60,000, of which the first named constitute about two-thirds of the 
number. 

6. The towns are yet small. The principal of them are, Brazoria, 
Matagorda, Bexar, San Felipe de Austin, Nacogdoches, and San Au¬ 
gustine. The city of Houston, recently laid out, is the capital. 

7. The commerce of this youthful state is already sufficient to em¬ 
ploy, to advantage, a number of trading vessels between her principal 
commercial towns and New Orleans; and foreign vessels are beginning 
to carry the products of the republic to European ports. 

Map No. 3. — What bounds Texas on the north ? U.-Ss., Mo. — 

South? G.-Mo. — East? U.-Ss. — West? Mo. — What river forms 
the north boundary ? Rd. — East ? Se. — West ? Ns. 

Map No. 4. — Which are the chief rivers in Texas ? Co., Bs., Ty., 
Ns. — How long are they ? From what lake does the Brasos river 
flow? Se. — On what river is Houston? S.-Jo. — Into what bay 
does it flow ? Gn. — How far do steam-boats ascend the Brasos river ? 
What is the population of San Felipe de Austin ? Bexar, and Nacog¬ 
doches ? What animals abound in the north-west parts of Texas ? 
Bs., W.-Hs. 

- 129 - 

MEXICO. 

1. Mexico is an extensive territory, comprising a number 
of divisions called states or departments. Previous to the 
year 1835, it was a Federal government, somewhat similar 
to that of the United States ; but it is now a central or con¬ 
solidated republic. 

2 . Most of the surface of the country is elevated; a great 
part of it forming a high table-land of from 6000 to 8000 
feet in height. From this elevated plain, a few volcanic peaks 
shoot up to a still greater height. The chief of these are 
Popocatapetl, Orizava, Toluca, &c. 

3. Mexico is famous for the variety of its vegetable pro¬ 
ducts ; comprising, according to the elevation at which they 

is said of Buffalo, &c. ? How are they taken ? 5. What are the in¬ 
habitants? 6. What is said of the towns in Texas? 7. Of the 
commerce ? 

Mexico. Q. — 1. What is Mexico ? What of its government ? 2. 
What is said of the surface ? Of the volcanic peaks ? 3. For what is 






MEXICO. 


181 



Pyramid of Cholula. Indians. Creoles. Maguey Plant. 


are planted, the principal grains and fruits of torrid and tem¬ 
perate climates. 

4. Indian-corn is the staple article; of which, two and 
sometimes three crops are gathered in the course of the year. 
Wheat, rice, and barley, are also cultivated ; and sugar, cof¬ 
fee, tobacco, vanilla, cochineal, &c., are raised chiefly for 
internal consumption. 

5. The American Aloe, or Maguey plant, is extensively cultivated 
for the sake of its juice, of which the liquor called pulque, the favourite 
drink of the lower order of Mexicans, is made. 

6. The manufactures of Mexico are in a rude state, and 
are chiefly confined to coarse pottery, with glass-ware, and 
cotton and woollen goods. Silver plate and jewellery are, 
however, well and skilfully made. 

7. The commerce has never corresponded with the extent 
and resources of the country. The mines of gold and silver 
have always been the chief object of attention. 

8. Many of these are at present in a ruinous state, and those that are 
worked do not yield more than half their former amount. From 20 to 
25 millions of dollars were once obtained from the mines of Mexico 
annually, which is now reduced to 10 or 12 millions. 


Mexico famous? 4. What is said of Indian-corn? Wheat, &c.? 5. 

The American aloe ? 6. The manufactures ? 7. Commerce ? Mines ? 
8. In what state are they ? 9. Of the inhabitants ? What do tho 








DESCRIPTIVE GEOGRAPHY 


182 

9. There are three classes of inhabitants in Mexico; the Whites or 
Creoles , the Indians, and the mixed races. The latter comprise 
Mestizoes , or the descendants of whites and Indians ; Mulattoes , of white 
and negroes ; and Zamboes , of Indians and negroes. These races were 
once as distinct from each other as if they had belonged to different 
nations—but the Revolution has placed all classes on an equal footing, 
and men of all complexions are alike free. 

10. The Catholic religion is established by law, and is the only system 
tolerated in Mexico. The number of the clergy, including all belong¬ 
ing to the church, amounts to about 14,000 persons. The amusements 
of the people are chiefly those of Old Spain; bull-fights, and religious 
processions. 

11. At the time of the discovery of America, Mexico formed the 
most powerful of the native empires. Being conquered by Spain, it 
remained for 300 years the most important colony belonging to that 
crown. In the year 1821, the people declared themselves independent, 
and established a republican form of government; but like all the 
Spanish American States, this country has been, since the revolution, 
much distracted by civil war. 



City of Mexico. 

12. The city of Mexico, the capital, is situated in a delightful valley, 
which is elevated 7000 feet above the sea, and in the vicinity of several 
of the highest mountains in North America. It is distinguished for the 
beauty of its architecture, the regularity of its streets, and the extent 
of the squares and public places. The market is well supplied with 
all the animal and vegetable productions of the country ; many of the 
latter are raised on floating gardens in the neighbouring lakes. 

13. La Puebla is next to the capital in importance, and is noted for 
its manufactures of glass and earthenware. Guanaxuato, Zacatecas, 
and San Luis Potosi, are all connected with rich silver mines. Near 
the first are the great mines of Valenciana, which in 37 years yielded 
165 millions of dollars. 


mixed races comprise? 10. What is said of religion? 11. At the 
discovery of America, what did Mexico form ? How long did it remain 
a colony? What took place in 1821 ? 12. Describe Mexico. How is it 

distinguished ? What of the markets ? 13. La Puebla and other towns ? 






BALIZE SETTLEMENT. 183 

-130- 

14. Choiula, the ancient capital of a great independent republic, has 
declined into an unimportant town, containing 6,000 souls. The pyra¬ 
mid of Cholula is the work of art, which, next to the pyramids of Egypt, 
approaches nearest in magnitude and vastness to those of nature. It is 
composed of brick, and though only about one-third as high as the Great 
Pyramid, is nearly double the length. 

15. The chief sea-ports are, Vera Cruz and Tampico, on the Gulf of 
Mexico; Acapulco and San-Blas, on the west coast; and Guyamas,on the 
Gulf of California. Monterey is the principal place in Upper California, 
and is often visited by American whale-ships. Santa Fe, in New 
Mexico, is the centre of the trade with Missouri. 

16 . Balize Settlement. — On the east side of the Penin¬ 
sula of Yucatan is the Balize Settlement, which, though within 
the limits of Mexico, belongs to Great Britain. 

17. It extends along the Bay of Honduras about 150 miles; and was 
founded for the purpose of cutting logwood and mahogany, which form 
its chief products. The inhabitants are mostly Indians and Negroes, 
with a few whites. Tlie town of Balize, the capital, is situated on the 
river of the same name. The exports from this place in 1830, were of 
the value of a million and a half of dollars. 


Map No. 3.—What bounds Mexico on the north? U.-S.— On the 
south and west? P.-On.— What two Republics on the east? U.-S., 
Ts.— What sea and gulf on the east ? Cn., Mo. — What peninsula ? 
Yn. — What gulf on the west ? Ca. — What peninsula ? Ca. — What 
bay west of Yucatan ? Ce.— East? Hs. 

Map No. 4. — What rivers flow into the Gulf of Mexico ? R.-Ne., Ns. 
— The Gulf of California ? Co., Yi. — The Pacific ocean ?" Ge.— 
What lakes are in Mexico ? Yu., Ba., Te., Cn., Ca. —What mountains ? 
M.-Cs., Sy. — What desert in the north-west? G.-Sy. — What states 
border on the Gulf of Mexico? Ts., Vz., To., Yn. — On the Pacific 
ocean? U-Ca-, 0-Ca M Jo., Mn., Mo., La., Oa.—How far is it from 
California to Birmah ? From Mexico to the Sandwich Islands ? To 
Cochin China ? What is the population of the eity of Mexico ? What 
cities have a population of 30,000 and upwards ? Zs., S.-L.-Pi., Qo., 
Go., Ga., La., Oa. — How many between 12,000 and 30,000? Ca., My., 
Do., Vd., Ja. 

Wliat bay bounds the Balize settlement on the east? Hs. — What 
state on the west ? Yn. 

14. What is said of Cholula, and its pyramid ? 15. Chief sea-ports ? 

Monterey, &c. 

Balize. Q. — 16. To what power does the Balize settlement belong? 
17. What is its extent ? For what purpose was it founded ? What 
town is its capital ? 






184 


DESCRIPTIVE GEOGRAPHY 


- 131 - 

GUATIMALA, OR CENTRAL AMERICA. 

1. Guatimala occupies the narrow tract between the 
northern and southern divisions of the Western Continent; 
and has, in consequence of its position, assumed the title of 
the United States of Central America. 

2. It became independent in 1824, and adopted a form of 
government modelled after that of the United States; but 
instead of acquiring the order and prosperity of that repub¬ 
lic, it is the seat of anarchy and civil war. 

3. The country is traversed on the western coast by lofly ranges of 
mountains, which contain many volcanoes, one of which, the Water 
Volcano, is remarkable for throwing out vast quantities of water ; while 
the eruptions of another, the volcano of Cosiguina, were, in 1834, heard 
1000 miles distant, and the ashes thrown by it were carried to Jamaica, 
800 miles. 

4. The soil of this region is prolific, and yields, in perfec¬ 
tion, all the most valuable tropical products. Its indigo and 
cacao are of superior quality. Mines of silver are numer¬ 
ous, but few of them are at present productive. 

5. One-half of the population of Guatimala is composed of 
Indians, one-fifth whites, and the remainder of the mixed 
races. The Catholic is the established religion, no other 
being tolerated. 

6. Part of the east coast of this republic is called the Mosquito shore. 
It is covered with vast forests, and peopled by independent Indians; of 
which, some of the tribes have long been in alliance with the English. 

7. St. Salvador is the capital of Guatimala. Its inhabitants are 
chiefly employed in the indigo trade. Old Guatimala, formerly the 
capital, was destroyed by an eruption of water from the Water Vol¬ 
cano, but is now reviving. 

8. New Guatimala is the most populous place in the country, and is 
a handsome city. Leon and Cartago are considerable towns. Omoa 
and Truxillo, on the bay of Honduras, are the chief sea-ports. 


Guatimala. Q. — 1. What does Guatimala occupy ? What has it 
assumed ? 2. When did it become independent ? What is said of the 

government? 3. Of the country? Water Volcano? Cosiguina? 
4. Of the soil ? Mines? 5. What is said of the population ? Of the 
Catholic religion ? 6. Of the east coast ? 7, Describe St. Salvador, 

Old Guatimala. 8. New Guatimala, &c. 





WEST INDIES 


185 


Map No. 3. — What bounds Guatimala on the north ? Mo., Be. — 
East ? C.-Sa. — West and south ? P.-On. — What bay on the north ? 
Hs. — On the east? Ga. — What lake in the south? Na. — How 
long is it ? What river connects it with the sea ? S.-Jn. — Which is 
the most populous city ? N.-Ga. — The four next in population ? Ln., 
Co., S.-Sr., O.-Ga. — What is the population of these places ? 

Map No. 5 .— Guatimala comprises five states. Point them out? 
Ga., Hs., S.-Sr., Na., C.-Ra. — What is the capital of each? N.-Ga., 
Ca., S.-Sr., Ln.. Co. — In what state is the Water Volcano situated ? 
Ga. — Volcano of Cosiguina? Na. — Lake Nicaragua ? Na. 

- 132 - 



Slaves cultivating the Sugar-cane. 

WEST INDIES. 


1. The West Indies consist of a large collection of islands, 
situated between North and South America. They are all, 
with the exception of Hayti, subject to different European 
powers. 

2. These Islands comprise four great divisions : the Baha¬ 
ma Islands, the Great Antilles,- the Little Antilles, and the 
Caribbee Islands. The latter are divided into two groups, 
the Windward and Leeward Islands. 

3. The climate is mild and pleasant in winter, which lasts 

West Indies. Q.— 1. Of what do the West Indies consist? 2. What 
do they comprise ? 3. What is said of the climate ? What sometimes 











180 


DESCRIPTIVE GEOGRAPHY. 


from December to May; but the remainder of the year is hot 
and unhealthy for strangers. Between August and October, 
tremendous hurricanes or storms sometimes occur, which often 
do great injury to towns, houses, and shipping. 

4. The West Indies abound in nearly all the productions 
of warm climates, and are rich in a variety of articles of 
great importance in commerce; while the forests furnish 
mahogany and several other woods useful in the arts. 

5. The principal fruits are, oranges, lemons, pine-apples, papaws, 
bananas, plantains, &c. The two last afford a supply of excellent 
food, with but little attention to their cultivation. A great variety 
of birds is found in the West Indies, nearly all of which are, however, 
common to the neighbouring continents. 



Green Turtle. Guana Lizard. 


6. The green turtle and guana lizard are both highly prized, as afford¬ 
ing delicious food. The former are sent in considerable numbers to 
Europe and the United States. They come on shore in the night, when 
the fishermen turn them on their backs, and collect them at leisure. 
The guana is from four to five feet long; it is very nimble, and is hunt¬ 
ed with dogs. The flesh is tender, sweet, and delicate. 

7. Commerce is carried on from the West India Islands 
with great activity, and to a larger amount than in any other 
country of the same extent and population. 

8. The chief articles of export are, coffee, sugar, rum, cot¬ 
ton, cocoa, pimento, mahogany, logwood, &c. The imports 
are, manufactured goods of all kinds from Europe, with flour, 
lumber, fish, and salted provisions from the United States 
and British America. 

9. The islands of the West Indies are under the control of Governors, 


occur ? 4. In what do the West Indies abound ? 5. What are the 
principal fruits ? What is said of birds ? G. Of the green turtle, <&c. ? 

7. What is said of commerce ? 8. What are the chief articles of ex. 

port ? Imports ? 9. What control are the islands under ? How are 




WEST INDIES 


187 


appointed by the powers to which they respectively belong-. The white 
inhabitants of the British Islands are represented in the Houses of 
Assembly, which exercise some of the functions of the British Par¬ 
liament. Hayti forms an independent republic. 

10. The inhabitants of the West Indies consist of whites, 
free blacks, and slaves, of whom not more than 500,000 are 
h whites. The remainder are of Negro origin ; and, except in 
Hayti and the British Islands, the principal part are in a state 
of slavery. 


11. Population. 

Spanish Islands. 1,050,000 

Hayti . 800,000 

British Islands ... 745,000 


Population. 


French Islands. 256,000 

Danish, Dutch, &c. 119,000 


Total 2,970,000 


133 


SPANISH WEST INDIES. 


12. The western colonies of Spain, which formerly com¬ 
prised the greater part of the American Continent, are now 
limited to the two islands of Cuba and Porto Rico. 

13. Cuba, the largest of the West India Islands, is nearly equal in 
extent to all the rest of the islands taken together. Porto Rico contains 
about one-tenth the area of Cuba. They are both fertile islands, and 
carry on an extensive trade, chiefly with the United States. 

14. Havannah, the capital of Cuba, is the largest and most flourish¬ 
ing place in the West Indies. Matanzas, Puerto Principe, and St. 
Jago de Cuba, are, after the capital, the most important towns. St. 
John’s is the chief town in Porto Rico. It has a safe and capacious 
harbour, and is strongly fortified. 


BRITISH WEST INDIES. 

15. Jamaica is the largest and most valuable of the British 
islands. The towns of Jamaica, and the other islands, are 
all sea-ports, and supported by commerce. 

16. Kingston is the largest town in the British West Indies, and con¬ 
tains about 30,000 inhabitants. The chief of the other towns are, 
Bridgetown in Barbadoes, with 20,000 inhabitants; St. John’s, in Anti¬ 
gua, with 15,000; and Basseterre, in St. Christopher’s, with 7000 in¬ 
habitants. 


the white inhabitants of the Bi’itish islands represented? 10. Of what 
do the inhabitants consist? How many are whites ? 11. What is tho 

population of the different islands ? 

12. What are the colonies of Spain ? 13. What is said of Cuba ? Porto 
Rico? 14. Havana? Other towns? St.John’s? 15. Jamaica? 16. Kings. 













188 


DESCRIPTIVE GEOGRAPHY, 


BRITISH ISLANDS. 


17. Inhabitants. Capital. 

Jamaica.375,000 Kingston. 

Barbadoes.102,000 Bridgetown. 

Trinidad. 45,000 Port Spain. 

Antigua. 36,000 St.John’s. 

Grenada. 29,000 St. George. 

St. Vincent. 26,000 Kingston. 

St. Kitt’s . 24,000 Basse Terre. 

Dominica. 20,000 Roseau. 


Inhabitants. Capital. 


St. Lucia.18,000 Carenage. 

Tobago.14,000 Scarborough. 

Nevis.12,000 Charlestown. 

Montserrat. 8,000 Plymouth. 

Tortola. 7,000 Road Harbour. 

Anguilla. 3,000 

Bahamas.18,000 Nassau. 

Bermudas.10,000 Georgetown. 


18. The Bahamas comprise about 650 islands, of which only fourteen 
are of considerable size. The soil is arid and rocky, and these islands 
are, in consequence, not fruitful in the usual products of the West 
Indies. 

19. The Bermudas lie to the eastward of the United States, and are 
a collection of rocks and small islands, of which only eight possess any 
importance. They enjoy an almost perpetual spring, and are clothed 
in constant verdure. 


20. FRENCH ISLANDS. 


Guadaloupe ... 124,000 Basse Terre. 

Martinico. 119,000 St. Pierre. 

21. DANISH. 

Santa Cruz.... 34,000 Christianstadt. 

St. Thomas- 15,000 St. Thomas. 

St. John’s .... 3,000 

23. SWEDISH. 


St. Bartholomew 8,000 Gustavia. 


Mariegalante . ..11,500 Basse Terre. 
Deseada. 1,500 

22. DUTCH. 

St. Eustatia.20,000 The Bay. 

Curacoa.12,000 Williamstadt. 

St. Martin’s, &c. 11,000 

24. VENEZUELA. 

Margarita.16,000 Pampatar. 


- 134- 

25. Hayti was formerly called Hispaniola, and also St. 
Domingo. It is one of the finest of the West India Islands, 
and once belonged jointly to France and Spain. The French 
portion was uncommonly flourishing, and the exports were 
nearly equal to that of all the other West India Islands united. 

26. In 1791, the slaves of the French colonists revolted against their 
masters, and expelled them from the island: in 1822, the Spaniards 
were also expelled; since which time the whole island has been under 
the dominion of the blacks. 


ton, and the other towns ? 17. Which is the most populous of the Brit¬ 

ish islands ? Ja. — The next ? Bs. — The least ? Aa. —18. What do 
the Bahamas comprise ? What is said of the soil ? 19. Of the Ber¬ 
mudas ? What do they enjoy ? 20. Which is the most populous of tho 

French islands? Ge. — 21. Of the Danish? S.-Cr.—22. Dutch? 
S.-Ea. — 23. What islands belong to Sweden ? S.-Bvv. — 24. To Vene¬ 
zuela ? Ma. 

25. What is said of Hayti? The French portion? 26. Of the 




























WEST INDIES. 


189 


27. The government of Hayti is professedly republican, but is, in 
fact, a military despotism. The President holds his office for life. The 
regular army amounts to 45,000 men, besides which there is a large 
militia force. 

28. The annual exports are about 4,000,000 dollars, or one-sixth of 
the value of those sent from the French part of the island only, previous 
to the year 1791. 

29. The principal towns of Hayti are Port au Prince, the capital, 
Cape Haytien, St. Domingo, Jeremie, and Aux Cayes. 


Map No. 3. —Which is the largest of the West Indian Islands ? Ca. 
— The second in size? Hi. — Third? Ja. — Fourth? P.-Ro.— 
How long is Cuba ? Hayti ? Jamaica ? Porto Rico ? These are 
called the Great Antilles. What sea between the Great Antilles and 
South America ? Cn. — What islands lie north of Cuba? Bs.— 
Which are the principal of the Bahamas ? N.-Pe. Ao., Ia., Ts., Lg., 
Gi. — Who discovered Guanahani? In what year? What is the 
name of the eastern range of the West Indian Islands ? Ce. — What 
six islands on the coast of South America ? Oa., Ca., B.-Ae., Oa., Ta., 
Ma.—These are called the Little Antilles. The Bermudas islands are 
about the same distance from Charleston, from Halifax, and from St 
John’s, Porto Rico. How many miles is it by the scale ? How far are 
the Bermudas from Madeira ? 


- 135 - 

SOUTH AMERICA. 

1. South America, the southern part of the New World, 
is smaller in extent than the northern division of the continent 
by almost one million of square miles: it is thinly settled, and 
for the most part uncultivated. 

2. Like North America, it is noted for the grandeur and 
extent of its mountains, rivers, and plains: it is also unrivalled 
for the number and richness of its mines of gold, silver, mer¬ 
cury, and precious stones. 

3. The climate of South America possesses every variety 
which vast extent and great diversity of surface can give. Its 

slaves ? 27. Government ? President ? Army ? 28. Exports ? 

29. The principal towns ? 

South America. Q. — 1. How much smaller is South America than 
North America ? 2. For what is it noted ? For what unrivalled ? 3. What 







190 DESCRIPTIVE GEOGRAPHY. 



South American Scenery. 


vegetable productions are numerous and valuable, and com¬ 
prise the chief articles raised in tropical and temperate regions. 

4. The principal mountains are the Andes, which range 
along the whole extent of the western shores of the continent, 
from north to south. The highest peak, Mount Sorata, is al¬ 
most five miles high. The mountains of Brazil extend along 
a great part of the eastern coast, and are in height from 3,000 
to 6,000 feet. 

5. The Andes contain numerous volcanoes, many of which 
are constantly burning: the most considerable of these, Coto¬ 
paxi, near Quito, is one of the loftiest volcanoes in the world ; 
the noise of its eruptions has been heard six hundred miles, 
and the flames from its mouth have been known to ascend 
more than half a mile high. 

6. The principal rivers are the Amazon, Rio de la Plata, 
and Orinoco. The first, though not the longest, is the largest 
river in the world: it is said to drain, with its tributaries, an 
extent of country nearly equal to the whole of Europe; and 
its chief branches rival the largest rivers of the eastern con¬ 
tinent. 


is said of the climate? Productions? 4. Which are the principal 
mountains ? The highest peak ? 5. What is said of volcanoes ? 6. Of the 
















SOUTH AMERICA 


191 




South American Forest. 

7. The forests of many parts of South America exhibit a luxuriance 
and diversity of aspect different from those of most other parts of the 
world. They are enlivened by a great variety of birds of singular forms 
and superb plumage, which flutter through the branches; and troops 
of monkeys and squirrels, that leap from bough to bough; while the 
occasional appearance of the alligator, with numerous serpents and 
lizards, presents a singular and varied scene. 


Lama. Tapir. 

8. Among the most remarkable animals of this continent, are the 
jaguar, puma and ocelot, the lama or South American camel, the tapir, 
peccary, sloth, ant-eater, armadillo, and chinchilla. The horse, ox, ass, 
and hog, were all strangers to the New World, and were brought from 
Europe by the first settlers : these have increased prodigiously, and have 
in some instances regained their original wild state. 

9. The birds are numerous and of various kinds; the largest arc the 
rhea or American ostrich, and the condor or vulture of the Andes, which 
is the largest bird of flight known. There are also toucans, orioles or 


principal rivers ? 7. Forests ? 8. The most remarkable animals ? 9. The 




192 


DESCRIPTIVE GEOGRAPHY 




Oriole Nests. 


hanging-birds, with the blacksmith or bell-birds, and humming-birds 
of a hundred different species, from the size of a wren to that of a hum¬ 
ble-bee. 

10. The inhabitants of South America amount to about 14 
millions, and consist of nearly the same classes as -those of 
the northern division of the continent—Whites, Indians, Ne¬ 
groes, and the mixed races: the latter comprise Mulattoes, 
Mestizoes, and Zamboes. 

11. The whites are chiefly Spaniards and Portuguese, and 
their descendants : of these, many of the wealthy classes are 
well educated and intelligent; but the great majority of the 
people are ignorant, indolent, and often vicious in their habits. 

12. Considerable attention has been lately paid in some of the South 
American States to education. Schools and universities have been es¬ 
tablished in several places, and knowledge is beginning to dispel part 
of the ignorance which prevailed. 

13. Nearly the whole of South America was, for three hundred years 
subject to Spain and Portugal: it is now, with the exception of Guiana, 
entirely independent of European control. The Spanish part is divided, 
with one exception, into a number of distinct republics, whose govern¬ 
ments are similar to that of the United States; while Brazil, the part 
settled by the Portuguese, is a limited monarchy. 

14. The Roman Catholic is the established religion in all the South 
American States, and no other system is tolerated ; but persons of other 
persuasions are allowed to reside without molestation. 


birds? 10. What is said of the inhabitants? 11. Of the whites? 
12. Education, &c. ? 13. How long was South America subject, &c. ? 

What is said of the Spanish part? Portuguese? 14. Which is the 
established religion ? 





SOUTH AMERICA. 193 


136 


Map No. 10.—What ocean bounds South America on the east? 
Ac— On the west ? Pc. — What sea on the north ? Cn. 

How is New Grenada bounded ? 


Venezuela—bounded ? Capital ? 
Ecuador—bounded ? Capital ? 
Guiana—bounded ? Capital ? 
North Peru—bounded ? Capital ? 
South Peru—bounded ? Capital ? 
Bolivia—bounded ? Capital ? 


Its capital ? 

Brazil—bounded ? Capital ? 

Chili—bounded ? Capital ? 

Buenos Ayres—bounded ? Capital ? 
Paraguay—bounded ? Capital ? 
Uruguay—bounded ? Capital ? 
Patagonia—bounded ? Capital ? 


On what side of South America are the Andes ? Wt. — What num¬ 
ber of miles do they extend ? Between what two states do they form 
the entire boundary ? Ci., B.-As. — Between what two do they form 
the boundary in part ? Ba., S.-Pu. — What is the next greatest range 
of mountains? Bn. — What number of miles do thdy extend ? In 
what state are they almost wholly ? Bl. 

What are the three largest rivers ? An., Pa., Oo. — How long is 
each of these ? How wide are the mouths of the two largest ? Where 
is the Magdalena ? Into what sea does it empty ? Cn. — Which are 
the four principal branches of the Amazon on the north side ? Ta., 
Po., Ca., No.— What are the chief branches of the Amazon on the 
south side ? Ue., Ju., Ps., Ma., Ts., Xu. — How long are each of the 
foregoing rivers ? What two rivers form the Amazon ? Ue., Ta. — 
Which rivers form the Rio de la Plata ? Pa., Uy. — Into what ocean 
do the Orinoco, Amazon, St. Franqisco, and the Rio de la Plata, flow ? 
A.-On. — What rivers are south of the Rio de la Plata? Co., No., 
Cs., P.-De. 


Where is the Gulf of Darien ? N.-Ga. — G. of Venezuela ? Va. — 
G. of Guayaquil ? Er. — G. of Penas ? Pa. — Where is the Bay of 
Panama ? N.-Ga. — Talcahuana B. ? Ci. — B. of St. George ? St. 
Mathias B. ? Pa. — B. of All Saints ? Bl. 

Where is Puno Island? Er. — Islands of St. Felix? Is. of Juan 
Fernandez? Chiloe I.? Ci. — Wellington I.? Pa.— I. of Terra 
del Fuego ? Where are the Falkland Is. ? Pa. — I. of St. Catharina ? 
Itamaraca I. ? Joannes I. ? Bl. — Between what two rivers is the 
latter situated ? An., Pa. 

Where is the Strait of Magellan ? What regions does it separate ? 
Pa. and T.-Fo. — Where is the Strait of Le Maire ? What does it 
separate ? T.-Fo. and S.-Ld. 

Which is the largest city of South America? R.-Jo. — The next 
largest? Ba. — What three cities number 70,000 inhabitants each? 
Qo., La., B.-As. — Which are the most northerly and the most south¬ 
erly capes ? Gs., Hn. — The most easterly and the most westerly ? 
S.-Re., Bo. 

What proportion of South America lies north of the Tropic of Ca¬ 
pricorn ? The largest or smallest ? Lt. — In what zone, then, is it 

13 






DESCRIPTIVE GEOGRAPHY. 


194 

mostly? Td.— In what zone is the remainder? S.-Te. — In what 
hemisphere is South America wholly? Wn, — In what hemisphere 
is it partly ? Sn. — South America contains about 12° of north, and 
55° of south latitude. In what latitude is it then ? Sh. — It extends 
from 35° to 81° of longitude, west from Greenwich. In what longitude 
then is it reckoned? Wt. 

Iiow many miles is it from Guiana to Newfoundland ? Brazil to 
Greenland ? Guiana to Liberia ? New Grenada to Borneo ? Ecuador 
to the Gallapagos Is. ? Peru toOtaheite? Chili to New South Wales ? 
Chili to New Zealand ? Brazil to the west coast of Africa ? Uruguay 
to the Cape of Good Hope ? Patagonia to Van Diemen’s Land ? 
Patagonia to Kerguelen’s Lund. 

- 137 - 

COLOMBIA. 

1. The late Republic of Colombia occupied an extensive 
region stretching from the Pacific to the Atlantic Ocean. It 
was the most powerful of the South American States that 
threw off the yoke of Spain, and was divided in the year 1831 
into the republics of New Grenada, Venezuela, and Ecuador, 
or Quito. 

2. The western part of this territory is traversed by some 
of the loftiest ranges of the Andes. In the east it consists 
of extensive plains (called llanos by the inhabitants) which 
form a part of the vast level region that spreads from north 
to south over the whole interior part of the continent. 

3. The climate changes according to the elevation ; hence 
the vegetable productions are various. On the high table¬ 
lands, among the mountains, are raised the wheat, rye, barley, 
oats, and fruits of temperate climates, while the low country 
is prolific in the most valuable products of the Torrid Zone. 

4. Manufactures are but little attended to in Colombia, but commerce 
is carried on to some extent, chiefly with the United States and Great 
Britain. The exports are mostly in the tropical productions of the 
country, and consist of sugar, coffee, cacao, indigo, hides, sarsaparilla, &c. 

5. The mines of New Grenada yield in gold and silver about two 


Colombia. Q. — 1. What did the Republic of Colombia occupy? 
What was it ? When and how was it divided ? 2. What is said of 

the western part ? In the east ? 3. How does the climate change ? 

What of the vegetable productions ? 4. Manufactures ? Exports ? 

5. Mines ? Pearl fishery ? 





COLOMBIA. 



195 

millions of dollars annually. There are also mines of copper, lead, and 
tin ; and diamonds, emeralds, and other precious stones, are found. The 
Pearl fishery amounts in value to about $100,000 every year. 


Rope bridge. Silleros carrying travellers. 

NEW GRENADA. 

t 6. New Grenada is the most powerful and populous of 
the Colombian States. Its coast is washed on the west side 
by the Pacific Ocean, and on the north by the Caribbean sea. 
Part of this territory extends into North America westward 
from the Isthmus of Darien. 

7. Roads hardly exist in the mountainous districts of New Grenada 
and the other parts of Colombia. Travellers are often carried in a kind 
of chair, placed on the backs of persons called silleros, hired for the 
purpose. 

8. The bridges across the rapid torrents of the Andes are frequently 
formed of a single rope, and a hammock or basket made to run from 
one end to the other, in which the Colombian passes secure. 

9. Bogota, the Capital of New Grenada, is situated on a fertile plain, 
8000 feet above the sea. It contains a number of handsome churches 
and convents, and a university. The surrounding country yields two 
crops of grain annually. 

10. Carthagena, on the coast of the Caribbean sea, is the principal 
port of this republic ; its trade with the United States and Great Britain 


New Grenada. Q. — 6. What is said of New Grenada ? 7. Of roads ? 
How are travellers carried ? 8. What is said of bridges ? 9. Describe 

Bogota. The surrounding country ? 10. Carthagena ? Popayan, &c. ? 










DESCRIPTIVE GEOGRAPHY. 


196 

is extensive. Popayan and Pasto, in the southern part of New Grenada, 
and Panama, on the south side of the Isthmus of Darien, are all places 
of some importance. 


Map No. 10. — What bounds New Grenada on the north ? C.-Sa.— 
South? Er. — East? Va. — West? P.-On. — What Isthmus con¬ 
nects it with North America ? Dn. — Which are the principal rivers ? 
Ma., Ca., Ca., Us., No., Ge., Ma. — What is the length of each ? How 
far do sloops navigate the Magdalena ? Meta ? What is the popula¬ 
tion of Bogota ? Pdpayan ? Carthagena ? Mompox ? Honda ? 
What mountains extend along the west coast ? As. — What mountains 
oast of the Magdalena ? Ans. The north east range of the Andes. 

-138- 

VENEZUELA. 

1. Venezuela comprises the most eastern part of Colom¬ 
bia. A range of mountains, the north-east branch of the 
Andes, extends along nearly the whole of the northern coast. 
The remainder of the republic consists of a vast plain, form¬ 
ing part of the great Llanos of Colombia. 

2. Like the Pampas of Buenos Ayres, and the Sertam of 
Brazil, it is covered with tall herbage, on which graze vast 
herds of horses, oxen, and mules. Of these, many of the 
inhabitants possess from 10,000 to 20,000 head. 

3. The people of the plains are called Llaneros. They are all excel¬ 
lent horsemen; and particularly distinguished themselves, in the con¬ 
test with Spain, for their patriotism and bravery. 

4. Caraccas, the capital, is situated about 12 miles from the coast. 
Previous to 1812 it was a large city with more than 40,000 inhabitants. 
In that year it was destroyed by one of the most dreadful earthquakes 
on record, and 10,000 persons perished on the spot. The city is reviving, 
and now contains about one-half of its former population. 

5. La Guayra is the chief port of this republic. Maracaybo, Coro, 
and Valencia, are all considerable towns. The island of Margarita, one 
of the lesser Antilles, belongs to Venezuela. 


Venezuela. Q. — 1. What does Venezuela comprise ? Of what does 
the remainder consist? 2. With what is it covered ? What graze 
there ? 3. What are the people of the plains called ? How did they 

distinguish themselves ? 4. Describe Caraccas. When was it de¬ 

stroyed? How many persons perished? 5. Describe La Guayra, 
Maracaybo, &c. Margarita. 






COLOMBIA 


197 


ECUADOR* OR QUITO.t 

6. The Republic of Ecuador, or Quito, lies on both sides 
of the equator. The civilized part of the population is con¬ 
fined to the western coast and the valleys of the Andes; 
while the eastern portion of the territory is occupied by inde¬ 
pendent tribes of Indians. 

7. The climate, especially of Quito, is that of perpetual 
spring. Vegetation never ceases, and the trees and meadows 
are crowned with constant verdure. The country is delight¬ 
ful, and is called the evergreen Quito. It is, however, subject 
to dreadful earthquakes and violent tempests. 

8. The Gallapagos, or Turtle Islands arc claimed by the Republic of 
Ecuador. They lie on both sides of the equator, about 650 miles west- 
w T ard from South America. These islands, which enjoy a delightful 
climate, and a fertile soil, are occupied by a colony from Guayaquil. 

9. Quito, the capital, is situated on Mt. Pichincha, 9,000 feet above 
the sea. It contains handsome streets and squares, and many churches 
and convents, built with magnificence and taste. It has two universities, 
which are well attended. 

10. Guayaquil,! on a gulf of the same name, is the sea-port of this 
republic. It is one of the most flourishing commercial towns of South 
America. 


Map No. 10. — What bounds Venezuela on the north ? C.-Sa. — 
South? Bl. — East? Ga. — West? N.-GeL. — Which is the chief 
river ? Oo. — How long is it ? IIow far is it navigable for ships ? 
For sloops? What river connects the Orinoco and the Rio Negro? 
Ce. — What lake is in the north-west part of Venezuela ? Mo. — 
How long is it? From what lake does the Orinoco flow ? Ia. — What 
Indians are in this territory ? Gs., Cs., Os. — How many inhabitants 
has Caraccas ? Coro ? Valencia? Cumana? What island belongs 
to Venezuela ? Ma. 

What bounds Ecuador on the north ? N.-Ga. — South ? N.-Pu. — 
East? Bl. — West? P.-On.— What range of mountains is in the 
western part ? As. — What two large rivers in the south ? Ta., Ue.— 
These form the Amazon river. How far is it navigable for ships ? 


Ecuador. Q. — 6. How does the Republic of Ecuador lie ? What is 
said of the civilized part ? Of the population ? The western portion ? 
7. Of the climate ? 8. The Gallapagos islands ? 9. What is said of 

Quito ? What does it contain ? 10. Describe Guayaquil. 

* Spelled by mistake in Map No. 10, Equador, instead of Ecuador. 
t Quito, Kee'-to. I Guayaquil, Gwai'-a-keel. 







198 


DESCRIPTIVE GEOGRAPHY 


For sloops? How many inhabitants has Quito? What three cities 
number 20,000 each ? Ra., Gl., Ca. — What mountain south of Quito ? 
Co. — This was formerly considered the highest in South America. 

- 139 - 

GUIANA.* 

1. Guiana extends from the Orinoco to the Oyapock river, 
a distance of seven hundred miles. Along the sea-shore the 
country presents the appearance of a low extensive plain ; but 
in the interior, near the sources of the rivers, it is elevated and 
mountainous. 

2. The soil is exceedingly fertile, producing sugar, coffee, 
cayenne pepper, and cloves, with a great variety of tropical 
fruits, in abundance. 

3. This region is divided between the British, Dutch, and French. 
British Guiana comprises the colonies of Essequibo,f Demerara, and Ber- 
bice. The capital is Georgetown, a place of considerable trade. Dutch 
Guiana, or Surinam, has for its capital Paramaribo, the most important 
place in this quarter. French Guiana, or Cayenne,! has a capital of the 
sauifr name. 

4. The mass of the population of Guiana is composed of negroes. 
Those in the British colonies have been lately set at liberty; but in Su¬ 
rinam and Cayenne, they are still held as slaves. The interior of the 
country is inhabited by Maroons, or runaway negroes, and independent 
tribes of Indians. 


PERU. 

5. Peru comprises the states now called North Peru and 
South Peru. When first discovered by the Spaniards, it was 
inhabited by a race of Indians much more civilized than any 
of the other nations of South America. 

6. This country has been always proverbial for the great 
wealth furnished by its mines of gold, silver, and mercury. 


Guiana. Q. — 1. What does Guiana comprise ? What is said of the 
country ? 2. Of the soil ? 3. How is Guiana divided ? 4. What is 

said of the population ? How is the interior inhabited ? 

Peru. Q. — 5. What does Peru comprise? When first discovered 
how was it inhabited? 6. For what is it proverbial? What was 


* Guiana, Ghe-a'-na. t Essequibo, Es-se-ke'-bo. \ Cayenne, Ki-an'. 







PEHU 


199 



It was long the most valuable of the South American colonies, 
and the last territory in the western continent from which the 
Spaniards were driven. 

7. The Andes range through the whole extent of Peru. On the coast 
the climate is hot. Rain seldom falls, and much of the surface is sandy 
and arid. On the high table-land, between the ridges of the moun¬ 
tains, the climate is various, and the products of the soil are chiefly 
those of temperate region*. 

8. Along the sea-coast the agriculture is confined to the banks of the 
various streams which descend from the Andes. Where the soil can 
be watered, the vegetation is most luxuriant, and surprises the traveller 
by the pleasing change from the sterility of the desert to the bright ver¬ 
dure that prevails. 

9. The chief products are Indian-com, sugar-cane, and cotton, with 
the fruits of almost every climate. Some valuable dye-woods and medi¬ 
cinal plants arc also produced, particularly the Peruvian bark or Casca- 
rilla. Wine and brandy arc made to some extent, but wheat and flour 
are imported from Chili. 

10. The silver-mines of Ccrro Pasco are the most important now 
worked in Peru. There are also some valuable mines of gold and mer¬ 
cury. The commerce consists, for the most part, in the interchange 
of the precious metals for foreign products and manufactures, of which 
considerable quantities are imported. 


Mules and lamas carrying produce. 


Peru ? 7. What is said of the Andes ? The climate and products ? 
8 , Of the agriculture ? The soil ? 9. Chief products ? 10. The 











200 


DESCRIPTIVE GEOGRAPHY 


11. There is a great want of good roads and bridges in Peru; and 
in the intercourse between the sea-ports and the interior of the country, 
almost every article of trade is carried on the backs of mules and lamas. 

Map No. 10. — What bounds Guiana on the north? A.-On. — The 
west ? Va. — The south and east ? Bl. — The principal rivers ? Eo., 
Sm., Mi., Ok. How long are the three first ? How many inhabitants 
has Georgetown ? Paramaribo ? New Amsterdam ? Cayenne ? 
What Indians inhabit the south-east part of Guiana? As. 

- 140 - 

PERU-BOLIVIAN CONFEDERATION. 

1. The States of North Peru, South Peru, and Bolivia, form 
the lately created republic styled the Peru-Bolivian Confede¬ 
ration. 

2. Each of these is independent in its local affairs, and is governed 
by its own president; but for general purposes the confederation is under 
the control of a chief called the Supreme Protector, and a general Con¬ 
gress of plenipotentiaries from the three states. 

NORTH PERU. 

3. The republic of North Peru comprises the northern di¬ 
vision of the ancient country of that name. A large part of 
the eastern section of this state is still in the possession of the 
Indians, of whom many of the tribes are exceedingly savage, 
and some of them are said to be cannibals. 

4. Lima,* the capi¬ 
tal of Peru, is, next 
to Mexico, the finest 
city built by the 
Spaniards in the 
New World: it is 
regularly laid out, 
and includes ma¬ 
ny handsome pub¬ 
lic buildings. Its 
churches and con- 

mines? Commerce? 11. Of what is there a want? How are the 
articles of trade carried ? 

Peru-Bolivian Confederation. Q. — l. What states form the Peru- 
Bolivian Confederation ? 2. How are they governed ? 

North Peru. Q. — 3. What does North Peru comprise ? What is 
said of the eastern section ? What are some of the tribes ? 4. De- 



Lima from the Sea. 


* Lima, Le'-ma. 










PERU-BOLIVIAN CONFEDERATION, 


201 


vents, though robbed of a great part of their wealth during the revolu¬ 
tion, still present a handsome appearance. 

5. Callao, the sea-port of Lima, is strongly fortified. It was the last 
place held by the Spaniards in South America. At Cerro Pasco, among 
the Andes, are the richest mines now worked in Peru : the town is ele¬ 
vated 13,000 feet above the level of the sea. Truxillo is a handsome 
town; Piura is famous for its fine breed of mules; Caxamarca, Huaura, 
and Caxatambo, all in the interior, are places of some note. Payta, one 
of the most northern ports, is much frequented by American whale-ships. 

SOUTH PERU. 

6. The republic of South Peru declared its independence 
in March, 1836. It is the least extensive of the Peruvian 
States, but comprises some of the best cultivated and most 
populous districts in this part of South America. 

7. Cuzco, the capital, is situated far in the interior, on one of the head 
branches of the Amazon river; though much decayed, it is still a hand¬ 
some place. At the time of the Spanish conquest, it was the metropolis 
of the ancient empire of Peru, and was at that period a splendid city. 
Arequipa is the chief place of trade in this state. It is situated in the 
midst of one of the most fertile districts of Peru. Hay, its sea-port, is 
a small village. 

8. Guamanga contains a university richly endowed, and Guancavelica 
is celebrated for its mines of mercury or quicksilver. Puno and Tacna 
are important towns. Arica is the port through which the chief part 
of the trade of Bolivia is carried on. The other sea-ports, called the 
Intermedios, have some commerce. 


Map No. 10.— What bounds North Peru on the north? Er.— 
South? S.-Pu., Ba. — East? Bl. — West? P.-On. — What moun¬ 
tains extend along the coast ? As. — Which is the head branch of the 
Amazon ? Ue. — In what .lake does it rise ? Rs. — How far does 
sloop navigation extend on it from the sea ? What is the population of 
Lima ? Truxillo ? Cerro Pasco ? Callao ? Caxamarca ? Iluaura ? 
Caxatambo ? 

What bounds South Peru on the north ? N.-Pu. — East ? Ba. — 
West ? P.-On. — What lake forms part of the east boundary ? Ta.— 
What mountains ? As. — What desert in the south ? Aa. — What is 
the population of Cuzco ? Arequipa ? Puno ? Guamanga ? Tacna ? 
What are the ports from Ocono to Iquigue called ? Is. 


; scribe Lima. 5. Callao. Cerro Pasco. Truxillo, and the other 
i towns. What is said of Payta ? 

South Peru. Q. — 6. When did South Peru declare its independence ? 
What is it? What does it comprise ? 7. Describe Cuzco. Arequipa. 

8. Guamanga, and the other towns. 






202 


DESCRIPTIVE GEOGRAPHY 


- 141 


BOLIVIA. 


1. Bolivia, formerly called Upper Peru, is the most popu¬ 
lous and important of the South American states that threw 
off the yoke of Spain. It established its independence in 
1825, and was named after General Bolivar, the liberator of 
South America. 

- 2. It lies chiefly in the interior, and consists, for the most 
part, of a high fertile plain on the east side of the Andes, 
elevated from 8,000 to 14,000 feet above the level of the 
ocean. 


3. This lofty territory yields copious harvests of Indian- 
corn, rye, barley, and potatoes, and, also, some wheat. It 
has cities above the region of the clouds, and cottages situated 
as high as the top of Mont Blanc. 



4. Lake Titicaca forms 
part of the western bounda¬ 
ry of Bolivia. It has no 
visible outlet, and is raised 
12,500 feet above the sea. 
This lake is navigated by 
boats made of rushes closely 
plaited together; the mast 
and rudder alone are made of 
wood, which, owing to the 
scarcity of that article In this 
region, forms the most valua¬ 
ble part of the vessel. 

5. The condor, the largest 
of the vulture kind, is found 
in Bolivia and other parts 
of the continent. Inhab¬ 
iting the loftiest summits 
of the Andes, lie descends 
to the lower country only 
in pursuit of prey. He 

feeds chiefly on carrion; but also attacks deer and other quadrupeds. 
The condor is about feet long from the beak to the end of the tail, 
and the wings measure in extent from 9 to 13 feet. 


Bolivia. Q. — 1. What was Bolivia formerly called? What is it? 
When did it establish its independence ? After whom was it named ? 
2. Of what does it consist? 3. What does it yield? What of its 
cities and cottages? 4. Describe Lake Titicaca. 5. What is said of 






CHILI. 


203 

6. Chuquisaca,* or La Plata, the capital, contains a university, well 
attended, and a public library, said to be the best in South America. 
La Paz is the largest city in Bolivia, and, though situated in a deep 
valley, stands at the height of 12,400 feet above the ocean. It con- 
tains a cathedral, and several convents and churches. 

7. Potosi, the best known city in Bolivia, is elevated 13,000 feet above 
the sea. ^ It is but indifferently built, and is not so flourishing as it once 
was. The mountain on which it is situated is one huge silver mine. 
It yielded in 155 years the vast sum of sixteen hundred millions of 
dollars ; but is now less productive than formerly. 

8. Cochabamba t lies in a fertile and well-cultivated district, and the 
city carries on a considerable trade in grain, fruits, and vegetables. 
Cobija, or Puerto de la Mar, is the only sea-port Bolivia possesses. It 
is a small village, and being situated in a desert country, is of but little 
importance. 

Map No. 10. — What bounds Bolivia on the north? N.-Pu., BI.— 
South ? B.-As. — East ? Bl., Py. — West ? S.-Pu. — On what ocean 

is the south-west part situated ? Pc. — Which are the principal rivers ? 
Me., Bo., Ge., Py., Po., Vo. — How long is each of these ? The largest 
lake? Ta. — How long is it? What two mountains east of Lake 
Titicaca? Sa., Ii. — These are the highest in South America. How 
many -inhabitants has the capital ? La Paz? Cochabamba? Potosi ? 
Oruro ? What desert occupies the coast of Bolivia? Aa. — What 
tribes of Indians are in Bolivia ? Ms., Cs., As. 


-142-- 

CHILI4 

1. Chili consists of a long, narrow tract of country, situ* 
ated between the Andes and the Pacific Ocean. The climate 
is remarkably fine and healthy, and many parts of the coun¬ 
try present such romantic scenes, that Chili has been called 
the Italy, and from its fertility, the garden of South America. 

2. Its chief misfortune is that earthquakes are common, 
and often lay the cities and towns in ruins. Volcanoes are 
also numerous: among the Andes, fourteen are said to be 
constantly burning. 

3. The soil, except in some of the mining districts, is mostly very 

the condor ? 6. The capital ? La Paz ? 7. Potosi ? 8. Cochabamba ? 

Which is the sea-port of Bolivia ? 

Chili. Q. — 1. Of what does Chili consist ? What is said of the cli¬ 
mate ? What has Chili been called ? 2. What is said of earthquakes 

and volcanoes ? 3. Of the soil ? Products ? Agriculture, &c. ? 


* Chuquisaca, Chu-ke-sa'-ka. + Cochabamba, Co-ka-bam'-ba. t Chili, Chee'-le. 














204 DESCRIPTIVE GEOGRAPHY. 

fertile, and produces the finest wheat and other grains, besides fruits 
of various kinds, in abundance. Wine is made to some extent, and 
agriculture and the raising of cattle are actively pursued. 

4. The Chilese are a courteous and polite people, and appear to be 
more industrious and enterprising than most of the other inhabitants 
of South America. Mines of gold, silver, and copper, are numerous. 
The latter are the most abundant and profitable. 



5. Chili exports to 
Europe and the United 
States gold, silver, and 
copper, and to Peru 
grain and flour. A 
considerable trade is 
carried on with Bue¬ 
nos Ayres across the 
Andes by troops of 
mules, which convey 
merchandise, money, 
&c., to a considerable 
amount. In travers¬ 
ing these stupendous 
Route over the Andes. heights, the animals, 

and even their drivers, 

often slip from the narrow, steep roads, which wind among the moun¬ 
tains, and are dashed to pieces on the rocks beneath. 

6. The southern part of this territory is inhabited by the Aricaunian 
Indians, a brave and warlike race, who have defended their liberties 
against the encroachments of the Spaniards ever since their first en¬ 
trance into the country. 

7. Chiloe and the islands in its vicinity belong to this state; also the 
Juan Fernandez islands. The most eastern of these is noted for being 
the solitary residence for several years of Alexander Selkirk, a Scotch 
sailor, whose adventures gave rise to the well-known story of Robinson 
Crusoe. 


8. Santiago, the capital of Chili, is situated ninety miles from the 
coast, in a country that furnishes the most sublime and beautiful pros¬ 
pects. The houses are mostly of one story, and surrounded with gar¬ 
dens. The streets are regularly laid out, and many of the public 
buildings are handsome. 

9. Valparaiso is the chief sea-port; it has an excellent harbour, and 
carries on considerable commerce. Valdivia, Concepcion, and Coquim- 
ba, have all some trade. 


4. Of the Chilese ? Mines? 5. Exports? Trade with Buenos Ayres ? 
6. Of the southern part of the territory ? 7. Chiloe ? For what is 
Juan Fernandez noted ? 8. Describe Santiago ? 9. Valparaiso, and 

the other towns ? 






BRAZIL. 


205 


Map No. 10. — What bounds Chili on the north? Ba. — South? 
Pa. — East? B.-As. — West? P.-On. — What mountains separate 
Chili from Buenos Ayres ? As. — What island lies south of Chili ? 
Ce. — How long is it? What islands lie west of Valparaiso? J.-Fz. 
— What island was the residence of Alexander Selkirk ? M.-Ta.— 
What islands lie north of Juan Fernandez? S.-Fx. — What is the 
population of Santiago? Valparaiso? Concepcion? * Quillota ? 
Santa Rosa ? S. Felipe ? Valdivia? Copiapo? 

- 143 - 

BRAZIL. 

Brazil is the only portion of the new world ever governed 
by an European sovereign in person ; the King of Portugal 
having reigned here, under the title of Emperor, from the year 
1808 until the year 1821, at which time the country was 
declared independent of Portugal. 

2. This is an extensive region, being twenty-five times the 
size of the British Islands ; rather larger than the whole of 
the United States, and comprising almost one-half the area 
of South America. 

3. Brazil is one of the finest countries in the world, and 
enjoys great natural advantages, in the fertility of its soil, the 
variety of its vegetable productions, and the value of its min¬ 
erals. 



Crossing a Brazilian River. 


Brazil. Q. — 1. What king "reigned here from 1808 until 1821? 
When was Brazil declared independent ? 2. How does it compare 

with the British Islands and the United States? 3. What is Brazil? 


QuiUola, Ke-lo-ta'. 















206 Descriptive geography. 

4. The interior is? very thinly settled, and much of it is yet covered with 
dense forests. Roads are rare; and the numerous streams are destitute 
of bridges, and, in many cases, of ferry-boats. The rivers are generally 
crossed on rafts, moved by poles; while the horse, held by the head, is 
made to swim. 

5. The mass of the people are very ignorant and indolent. Nearly 
all the labour is performed by Negro slaves, who constitute about three- 
fifths of the whole population. 

6. Agriculture is in a backward state. Manufactures 
scarcely exist; but commerce is actively carried on. Sugar, 
cotton, coffee, hides, and other products of the country, are 
exported chiefly to the United States, Great Britain, and Por¬ 
tugal. 

7. Brazil is rich in gold and precious stones. The diamond 
mines are worked on account of the government, and furnish 
nearly all the diamonds of commerce. 

8. Cattle multiply to an immense extent, especially in the region 
called the Sertam ; and in the extensive plains in the south, near Rio 
Grande, some of the large farms have from 20,000 to 40,000 head. 

9. The western part of Brazil is called Amazonia; although not a 
political division, the name has been long in use, and originated from 
the reports of the early explorers of a nation of Amazons, or female 
warriors, residing on the banks of the Amazon river. 

10. Rio Janeiro is the most populous and flourishing city in South 
America. Its harbour is among the finest in the world, and is visited 



Palace of San Christovao. 


What does it enjoy ? 4. What is said of the interior ? How are the 

rivers crossed? 5. What are the mass of the people? 6. Of agri¬ 
culture? Manufactures? Commerce? 7. In what is Brazil rich? 
8. What is said of cattle? 9. Of the western part of Brazil? 
How did the name, Amazon, originate ? 10. Describe Rio Janeiro. 





BUENOS AYRES. 


207 


by the vessels of almost every commercial nation. The city is tolerably 
built, much in the European style, though the streets are rather narrow, 

The country palace of the Emperor, near the city, called San Chris- 
tovao, being of a light and rural style of architecture, has a very 
pleasing effect. 

11. Bahia, Pernambuco, Maranham, Para, and Rio Grande, are all 
important sea-ports. Tejuco, in the interior, is the chief town, and 
centre of the diamond district. Villa Rica, Villa Boa, and Cuyaba, are 
each surrounded by mining districts. 


Map No. 10. — What bounds Brazil on the north? Va., Ga., A.-On. 
— East ? A.-On. — West ? Va., Er., N.-Pu., Ba., Py., Uy. — Which 
are the principal rivers that flow into the Atlantic ocean ? An., Pa., 
Pa., S.-Fo. — How long are they ? How wide is the Amazon river at 
its mouth ? Which are the chief branches of the Amazon ? Xu., Ts., 
Ma., No., Ca. — How long are they ? How far is the Amazon navigable 
for ships ? For sloops ? How far can sloops ascend the Madeira from 
the sea ? What mountains extend along the coast ? Bn. — How long 
are they ? What are the chief Indian tribes that inhabit Brazil ? Ts., 
Ms., Bs., Gs., Cs., Xs., Cs., Bs. — What island at the mouth of the 
Amazon ? Js. — How long is it ? What land was first seen by Cabral, 
the discoverer of Brazil, in the year 1500? What is the population of 
Rio Janeiro? Bahia? Pernambuco? Cuyaba? Sergippe del Rey ? 
What towns have 20,000 inhabitants each ? Pa., Mm., Ai., S.-Pl., 
V.-Ba. — What district east of the St. Francisco river ? Dd. 

- 144 -- 

BUENOS AYRES. 

1. The states comprising the Republic of Buenos Ayres 
were the first in South America that threw off the yoke of 
Spain. At their declaration of independence, in 1816, they 
were, including the Banda Oriental, called the United Pro¬ 
vinces of the Rio de la Plata ; afterwards the Argentine 
Republic, and, finally, the present name was adopted. 

2. The surface of the country consists of vast plains, call¬ 
ed pampas, which stretch from the Atlantic ocean to the 
Andes, and from north to south through the whole extent of 
the territory. 

11. Which are important sea-ports? What is said of Tejuco, Villa 
Rica, &c. ? 

Buenos Ayres. Q. — 1. What states first threw off the yoke of Spain ? 
When did they declare their independence ? What were they first 
called ? What afterwards ? 2. How far do the pampas stretch ? 3. 






208 


DESCRIPTIVE GEOGRAPHY 



Gauchos catching Cattle with the Lasso. 


3. They are chiefly destitute of trees, and covered with J 
high grass. Numerous herds of horses, mules, and cattle, I 
graze and range over them. The rhea, or American ostrich, 
with the jaguar, and several kinds of deer, also, abound on I 
these plains. 

4. The Gauchos, or inhabitants of the pampas, lead a life of rude J 
independence. They have no care in rearing or feeding cattle; but I 
have only to catch them with the lasso, or long leather noose, to kill, or i 
drive them to Buenos Ayres; and, in the case of horses, to break and : 
mark them, that they may be afterwards known. 

5. Beef is the principal food used on the pampas; neither grain nor | 
vegetables are cultivated; nor is the cow often made to give milk. \ 
Horses are so numerous and cheap, that every one rides ; even the beg- i 
gar begs on horseback. 

6. Wheat and barley are raised in a slovenly manner. Immediately 
round Buenos Ayres, Mendoza, and some other towns, the grain is ' 
threshed by making cattle gallop over it. Fuel is so scarce, that the 
people make their fires with dried thistles; also, with the bones, fat j 
and dung of animals. 

7. Buenos Ayres, the capital, is situated on the south bank of the 


Of what are they destitute? What graze on them? What also 
abounds? 4. What of the Gauchos? How do they catch cattle? 
5. What food is used on the pampas ? What is said of horses ? 6. Of 
wheat and barley ? Of fuel ? 7. Describe Buenos Ayres. 8. Cordova, 
and Mendoza. 












PARAGUAY. 


209 



Buenos Ayres. 


Rio de la Plata, about 200 miles from the sea. It is the centre of trade 
for this part of South America, and carries on an extensive commerce 
with the United States and Great Britain, exporting thither great 
quantities of hides, horns, and tallow. 

8. Cordova and Mendoza, in the interior, are noted, the first for its 
university, the only one in this region, and the last for its wine and 
brandy, and its trade with Chili, which is carried on across the Andes 
by means of vast droves of mules. 


Map No. 10. — What country lies north of Buenos Ayres? Ba.— 
East? Py., Uy. — West? Ci. — South? Pa. — What mountains 
separate Buenos Ayres from Chili ? As. —What river from Patagonia ? 
R.-No. — From Uruguay ? R.-Pa., Uy. — From Paraguay? Py., Pa. 

— What is the length of the Rio de la Plata? Parana? Paraguay? 
Colorado ? Rio Negro ? Saladillo ? Salado, and Vermejo rivers ? 
How wide is the Rio de la Plata at its mouth ? How far is it naviga¬ 
ble for ships ? How far is the Paraguay, for sloops ? What is the 
population of Buenos Ayres ? Of Cordova? San Juan? Mendoza? 

-145- 

PARAGUAY. 

1. Paraguay is a fine fertile district, situated between tne 
6 Paraguay and Parana rivers. The population is composed 
chiefly of Indians and Mestizoes, not more than one-twentieth 
J part being whites. Vast herds of cattle and horses feed on 
f its rich plains. 

i, 

Paraguay. Q. — 1. What is Paraguay ? What is said of the popu- 
14 










210 


DESCRIPTIVE GEOGRAPHY. 


2. This state declared its independence in 1813, and short¬ 
ly afterwards fell under the control of Dr. Francia, a native 
Creole, who assumed the powers of a Dictator, and rules the 
people according to his own will. 

3. This singular man lives without pomp or parade, and, though 
sometimes acting with severity, appears to maintain his power unim¬ 
paired. All the inhabitants are taught reading, writing, and arithmetic. 
Every one is obliged to work at some occupation, and idleness and beg¬ 
gary are unknown. 

4. Mate, or Paraguay tea, is the most celebrated production of this 
region, and has been long used in a manner somewhat similar to the 
tea of China over a great part of South America. 

5. Assumpcion, the capital, is an irregularly built town, on the east 
bank of the Paraguay river. Itapua, Curuguaty, and Villa Rica, ap¬ 
pear to be the next important towns. 

URUGUAY. 

6. The Republic of Uruguay was formerly called the 
Banda Oriental, and attached to the United Provinces of the 
Rio de la Plata. It was afterwards, for a time, claimed by 
Brazil; but in 1828, at the close of a bloody war between 
the Brazilians and the Buenos Ayreans, the two parties agreed 
to its becoming an independent state. 

7. Montevideo,* the capital, stands on the north bank of the Rio de 
la Plata, and has the best harbour on that river. It exports great quan¬ 
tities of hides, &c. The country around this city is fertile, though but 
poorly cultivated. Maldonado and Colonia are small towns on the Rio 
de la Plata. 

8. On the upper part of the Uruguay river are the remains of the 
Missions formed by the Jesuits. These contained at one time thirty 
towns, and 100,000 Indians, who were converted from idolatry, instruct¬ 
ed in farming and some of the useful arts, and disciplined as soldiers 
after the European manner. But the towns are now decayed, and the 
inhabitants reduced to less than one-tenth of their former numbers. 


lation ? 2. Of the state ? Dr. Francia ? 3. Of the inhabitants ? 

4. What is the most celebrated production? 5. Describe Assumpcion 
and the other towns. 

Uruguay. Q. — 6. What was Uruguay formerly called ? To what 
was it attached ? By what power was it claimed ? What occurred in 
1828 ? 7. Describe the capital. The other towns. 8. By whom were 


Montevideo , Mon-te-ve'-de-o. 






PATAGONIA 


211 


Map No. 10. — What river forms the east and south boundary of Pa¬ 
raguay ? Pa. — The west boundary? Fy.— What tropic extends 
nearly through the middle of Paraguay ? Cn. — IIow many inhabit¬ 
ants has the capital ? The other towns ? 

What bounds Uruguay on the north ? Py. — On the south ? R.-Pa. 

— West ? Uy.-R. — East ? Bl. — Ilow long is the Uruguay river ? R. 

— Negro ? What is the population of the capital ? Of Maldonado ? 
How far is it from Uruguay to the Cape of Good Hope ? 


146 



Sailors killing seals. Penguins. 

PATAGONIA. 


1. Patagonia, the southern division of South America, 
has never been explored except along the coast. The chief 
part of it appears to be a cold, barren, and desert region. 

2. It is very thinly inhabited by various tribes of Indians, who are 
said to be excellent horsemen, and are usually described as a nation of 
giants. They hunt the Rhea, or American Ostrich, which abounds in 
the northern part of their country. 

3. Terra del Fuego, lying south of Patagonia, is peopled by a race 
of miserable savages, in the lowest state of wretchedness. 


the Missions formed ? The Jesuits were an order of Catholic Priests, 
who established Missions in various parts of the world. What is said 
of the Indians ? The towns ? 

Patagonia. Q. — 1. What is Patagonia ? What docs the chief part 
appear to be ? 2. By whom is it inhabited ? What is said of them ? 

3. By whom i3 Terra del Fuego peopled ? 













212 


DESCRIPTIVE GEOGRAPHY 


SOUTH AMERICAN ISLANDS. 

4. South-east from Patagonia are several groups of 
islands, scattered at various distances from the continent. 
They comprise the Falkland Islands, South Georgia, and 
Sandwich Land. 

5. The climate of these islands is cold and severe, and their shores 
are rugged and barren. They are all uninhabited ; and, except the Falk¬ 
land group, are very seldom visited. The latter contains many good 
harbours, which afford shelter to the whale and seal ships which navi¬ 
gate the southern seas. They are claimed both by Great Britain and 
Buenos Ayres. 

6. Farther to the south, are the islands of South Shetland, South 
Orkney, Palmer’s Land, and Graham’s Land. These have all been 
discovered since the year 1819. 

7. They are desolate, sterile regions, covered even in mid-summer 
with ice and snow, and arc untenanted by a single human being. 
Their shores abound with the fur-seal, sea-elephant, and vast numbers 
of penguins. 

8. Vessels from Stonington and other ports in New England frequent 
these islands for the purpose of procuring seals, the furs of which are 
very fine and valuable. 


Map No. 10.—How is Patagonia bounded? Which are its chief 
rivers? Cs., P.-De. — What tribes inhabit it? Ps., Ms.—What 
islands lie to the eastward ? Fd. — What straits separate this region 
from Terra del Fuego ? Mn. — What island on the west coast? Wn. 
— What island east of Terra del Fuego? S.-Ld. — What celebrated 
Cape south of Terra del Fuego ? Hn. — This cape is the southern 
extremity of Hermit’s Island. 

Map No. 1. — Western hemisphere. — Which is the most northern, 
Graham’s Land, or the Falkland Isles? F.-Is. — The most southern ? 
G.-Ld. — Which are the most eastern islands ? S.-Ld. — Which is 
the most distant from Patagonia? S.-Ld. 


South American Isles. Q. — 4. What do these islands comprise? 
5. What is said of the climate ? What do the Falkland Islands con¬ 
tain ? By what powers are they claimed ? 6. What is farther to the 

south ? 7. What are they covered with ? In what do their shores 

abound ? 8. What is said of vessels from Stonington ? 




EUROPE 


213 



EUROPE. 

1. Europe, though the smallest of the three great divisions 
of the eastern continent, is the first in importance, the most 
thickly peopled, and the best cultivated. 

2. In modern times it has been the point from which civil¬ 
ization and knowledge have been extended to other nations, 
and its emigrants have peopled all the civilized countries of 
the other parts of the world. 

3. Europe is deeply penetrated by large inland seas, and 
numerous gulfs, which afford great natural advantages for 
commercial pursuits. Its interior regions are well watered, 
though none of the rivers are of the first magnitude. The 
principal of them are the Volga, Don, Dnieper, Danube, 
Tagus, Loire, Rhine, Rhone, Elbe, and Vistula. 

4. Though the surface of Europe is greatly diversified, yet 
the mountains are inferior in extent and elevation to those of 
Asia and America. The principal ranges are the Dofrafields, 
Alps, Carpathians, Apennines, and Pyrenees. 

Europe. Q. — 1. What is Europe ? 2. What has it been in modern 
times ? 3. How is it penetrated ? What is said of its interiorregions? 

Which are the principal rivers ? 4. What is said of the mountains ? 





















214 


DESCRIPTIVE GEOGRAPHY 



Wild Scottish Ox. Wild Musraon Sheep. 


5. The native animals of Europe are less in number than those of 
some of the other quarters of the earth. The horse, ass, dog, and cat, 
came originally from Asia; but the ox and the sheep are, probably, of 
native origin. A few of the wild Scottish oxen are still preserved in 
parks in the north of England ; and the musraon, or wild sheep, is 
found in Sardinia and Corsica. 



6. The birds of Europe comprise a number of different kinds, many 
of which also abound in the neighbouring regions. The bearded vul¬ 
ture is the largest of the European birds of prey. It is found among 
the highest summits of the Alps, and destroys sheep, lambs, goats, and 
other animals. The golden eagle frequents the British isles, and the 
adjacent parts; while the bustard, frane, stork, flamingo, spoonbill, and 
pelican, are met with in various quarters. The turkey was brought 
from America, the peacock and common fowl from Asia, and the 
guinea-fowl from Africa. 

7. The cultivation of the soil has been carried, in many 
parts of Europe, to great perfection, and has been rendered 
highly productive in all the necessaries, and most of the 


5. Of the animals ? 6. Birds ? 7. Of cultivation ? 8. Manufactures ? 






EUROPE. 


215 


luxuries of life. Grain of various kinds is raised in all 
quarters, except in the extreme northern; while the vine, 
olive, mulberry, and orange, flourish in the southern parts of 
the continent. 

8. The amount and variety of the manufactures of the 
European nations are unrivalled ; and by means of the exten¬ 
sive commerce carried on by the maritime states, they are 
distributed over almost every quarter of the globe. 

- 148 - 

9. Though Europe was the latest portion of the eastern 
continent that received the light of civilization, yet it must 
now be considered as the centre of refinement and learning. 
The most useful inventions, the finest productions of genius, 
and the improvement of all the sciences, belong to the people 
of this region. 

10. Universities and colleges are numerous in almost all 
European countries. These provide for the higher branches 
of learning, and are generally on a larger scale than any in 
America. Some of them are endowed with extensive funds, 
valuable libraries, and botanic gardens; and attract many 
students from various quarters, of w’hom, some are from our 
own country, and other parts of the new world. 

11. In several parts of Europe, the common branches of 
school education are much neglected, and the lower orders of 
the people are not so well instructed as in the United States. 
Numbers of them are unable to read or w r rite; and in some 
countries they are extremely ignorant and bigoted. 

12. Schools for instructing the poorer classes are most 
numerous in Prussia, Switzerland, Holland, Belgium, and 
Scotland. In the latter country, more of the people receive 
a learned education than elsewhere. England, Germany, 
and France, excel in literature and science. 

13. In almost every part of Europe, great distinctions of 
rank prevail between the upper and lower classes of society. 
Orders of nobility are established everywhere, except in 
Turkey and Norway. Nearly all the individuals belonging 

9. What is said of Europe? 10. Of universities and colleges? 11. 
Common brandies of education? 12. Where arc schools most numer- 





21G 


DESCRIPTIVE GEOGRAPHY 


to these reside in splendid mansions, and enjoy every luxury 
which money can procure; whilst the poorer classes lodge in 
mean cottages, and earn a very scanty subsistence by the 
labour of their hands. 

14. The religion of Europe is almost entirety Christian, 
except in Turkey, where the Mahomedan system is estab¬ 
lished. The former is divided into three great churches, the 
Roman Catholic, the Protestant, and the Greek church. The 
adherents of the first-named amount, probably, to about,120 
millions, the second to 52 millions, and the last 50 millions. 
There are also about 5J- millions of Mahomedans, and 2^ 
millions of Jews. 

15. Europe comprises 61 independent states. Of these, three are 
styled Empires, 16 Kingdoms, 7 Grand Duchies, 1 Electorate, 11 
Duchies, 1 Landgraviate, 11 Principalities, 1 Lordship, 1 Ecclesiastical 
State, and 9 Republics. The population of the whole is estimated at 
230 millions. 

16. The states which rank highest in the scale of national importance 
are, Great Britain, France, Russia, Austria, and Prussia. These are 
called the five Great Powers. They direct and control the affairs of 
the whole continent, and, more or less, influence the destinies of every 
civilized nation. 

- 149 - 


How is Europe bounded ? Which is its largest city and river ? 


Norway] . .. Bounded ?—Capital ? 
Sweden .. . Bounded ?—Capital ? 
Russia .... Bounded ?—Capital ? 
Denmark . . Bounded ?—Capital? 
Holland .. . Bounded ?—Capital ? 
Belgium ... Bounded ?—Capital ? 
England .. . Bounded ?—Capital ? 
Scotland .. . Bounded ?—Capital ? 
Ireland .... Bounded ?—Capital ? 


France .Bounded ?—Capital ? 

Spain.Bounded ?—Capital ? 

Portugal .... Bounded ?—Capital ? 

Austria.Bounded ?—Capital ? 

Prussia.Bounded ?—Capital ? 

Switzerland . Bounded ?—Capital ? 

Italy.Bounded ?—Capital ? 

Turkey.Bounded ?—Capital ? 

Greece.Bounded ?—Capital ? 


Where is the White sea? Baltic sea? North sea? Irish sea? 
Mediterranean sea? Black sea? Sea of Azov? Sea of Marmora? 
How long is each of these seas? Where is the Archipelago? 

Where is the gulf of Bothnia ? G. of Finland ? G. of Venice ? 
How long are each of these ? Where is the gulf of Dantzick ? G. of 
Lyons? G. of Genoa? G. of Taranto? Where is the bay of Biscay ? 
Where is the channel called the Cattegat ? The Skager Rack ? 


ous ? 13. What is said of the distinctions of rank? 14. Of religion? 
How is it divided? 15. What does Europe comprise? 16. Which 
states rank highest ? 















EUROPE. 217 

St. George’s Channel? English Ch.? North Ch.? Channel of 
Constantinople ? 

Where is the strait of Dover ? S. of Otranto ? S. of the Dardanelles ? 
S. of Enikale ? S. of Gibraltar ? How many miles wide is the last ? 

Where is the Petchora river ? The Dvvina ? Onega ? Tornea ? 
Dal? Duna? Niemen ? Vistula? Oder? Elbe? Weser ? Rhine? 
Thames ? Shannon ? Seine ? Loire ? Garonne ? Douro ? Tagus ? 
Guadiana? Guadalquivir? Ebro? Rhone? Po ? Danube? Dniester? 
Bog ? Dnieper ? Don ? Volga ? How long is each of these rivers ? 

Where is the lake Onega ? Ladoga? Picpus ? Wener ? Wetter? 
Geneva ? How long is each of these lakes ? 

Where is the peninsula of Jutland ? Of the Morea ? The Crimea ? 
What large peninsula lies south of the Bay of Biscay ? Sn., PI.— 
What peninsula lies west of the Gulf of Venice? Iy. 

Where is cape Sviatoi ? North C. ? The Naze ? C. Clear ? Land’s 
End? C. Finisterre ? C. St. Vincent? C. de Gatt? C. Teuluada? 
C. Passaro ? C. Matapan ? 

Where is Iceland ? The LofFoden islands ? Faroe isles ? Shetland ? 
Orkney? Hebrides, or Western isles? British isles? Isle of Man? 
Anglesea ? Scilly islands ? Balearic Is. ? Majorca ? Minorca ? 
Ivica ? Corsica ? Sardinia ? Elba ? Lipari Is. ? Sicily ? Malta ? 
Ionian isles? Corfu? Cephalonia? Zante ? Cerigo? Candia? 
Milo? Naxio? Negropont? Lemnos? Where is Aland ? Dago? 
Oesel ? Gothland? Oland ? Rugen? Zealand? Funen? 

Where are the Dofrafield mountains ? Ural mountains ? Pyrenees ? 
Cevennes ? Auvergne? Cantabrian? Sierra Morena ? Sierra Ne¬ 
vada? Alps? Apennines? Carpathian? Balkan mountains ? Tell 
the length of the range, and the heights of those mountains that have 
figures attached to them. 

What race of people are in the northern part of Russia? Ss.— 
What three races are partly in Europe, and partly in Asia? Bs., Ks., 
Cs. 

How many miles is it from Iceland to Norway ? From Norway to 
Greenland ? Scotland to Labrador ? Ireland to Labrador ? England 
to Newfoundland? France to Canada? France to Nova Scotia? 
Oporto to New York ? 

- 150 - 

SWEDEN AND NORWAY. 

1. Sweden and Norway are now united into one kingdom, 
and are under the control of the same sovereign. The 
government is a limited monarchy. Each state has its par¬ 
ticular constitution, its own laws, and a national legislature. 


Sweden and Norway. Q.—1. What are Sweden and Norway? 





218 


DESCRIPTIVE GEOGRAPHY. 


2. This region forms a vast peninsula, bounded on the one 
side by 'the Atlantic ocean, and on the other by the Baltic sea. 
The climate, though severe in winter, is healthful; and many 
of the inhabitants, especially of Norway, live to a great age. 

Extensive forests cover a large part of the country, and 
but a small portion of it is suited to agriculture. 

3. Grain is seldom raised in sufficient quantities to supply 
the wants of the people; and in the northern districts, pine 
bark or moss, is often mixed with flour, to make bread. The 
southern sections are the most fertile, and produce potatoes, 
barley, oats, rye, and some tobacco. 

4. Sweden has but few manufactures, and Norway still less. The 
working of the mines, ship-building, the cutting of timber, and the 
fisheries, form the chief branches of industry. The commerce is 
active and extensive. The chief exports are iron, steel, copper, timber, 
and fish. 

5. The habits, manners, and characters of the Swedes and Norwe¬ 
gians have much resemblance. They are lively and cheerful in disposi¬ 
tion, polite and hospitable to strangers, and are strongly attached to 
their respective countries. 

6. The religion of both nations is the Lutheran. Education is gen¬ 
eral, and the chief part of the lower orders of the people are able to 
read and write. Amongst the peasantry, every man is his own carpen¬ 
ter, shoemaker, blacksmith, &c. 

NORWAY. 

7. Norway was united to Denmark in 1380, and contin 
ued to form part of the Danish monarchy until 1814, when 
it was annexed to Sweden. It is one of the most mountain¬ 
ous countries in Europe; and abounds in sublime and romantic 
scenery. 

8. Near the Loffoden islands there is a terrific whirlpool, called the 
Malstrom, which sometimes draws in ships, and dashes them on the 
rocks beneath. Whales, and other animals also, are occasionally forced 
into it. 

9. Christiania is the capital of Norway, and the seat of the storthig, 
or national legislature. It contains a university, a cathedral, a palace, 

What is the government? 2. What does this region form? What is 
said of forests ? 3. Grain, &c. ? 4. Of manufactures ? What are 

the chief branches of industry ? Of the commerce ? 5. The habits, 

manners, &c. ? 6. Religion ? 

' 7. When was Norway united to Denmark ? Annexed to Sweden ? 8. 
Describe the Malstrom. 9. Christiania, Bergen, &c. 



NORWAY. 


219 


several churches, and other public buildings. Its trade is chiefly in 
timber, tar, and the produce of the mines. Bergen and Drontheim are 
the next important towns. Hammerfest, on the island of Qualoe, is the 
most northern town in Europe. 



Christiania. 


Map No. 11. — What bounds Norway on the north? A.-On.— 
South? S.-Rk. — East? Sn. — West? A.-On. — What mountains 
on the east ? Dd. — How long and high are they ? What islands 
north of the Arctic circle ? Ln. — Which is the chief river ? Gn. — 
How long is it? What is the population of Bergen? Christiania? 
Drontheim ? Kongsberg ? Which extends farthest north, Norway or 
Sweden ? Ny. 


- 151 - 

SWEDEN. 

1. Sweden, though enclosed by high mountains on the 
north and west, is, in general, a flat country, much diversified 
by lakes and rivers. The northern part of the kingdom is 
barren, and very thinly peopled; while the southern is much 
more fertile, containing some thickly settled and well-culti¬ 
vated districts. 

2. In science, the Swedes have attained considerable distinction. 
They have cultivated, with great ardour, botany, chemistry, and min- 
eralogy; and their learned men are particularly well versed in the 
languages of other nations. They have also, at different periods, been 
noted for their martial spirit, and, under some of their kings, have 
acquired great military renown. 

3. Stockholm, the capital, is built on several small islands and pen¬ 
insulas, near the entrance of Lake Malar into the Baltic sea. It has a 


Sweden. Q. — 1. What is said of Sweden? 2. Of science, &c. ? 
3. Describe Stockholm. 4. Gottenburg, &c. Islands in the Baltic, &c. 






220 


DESCRIPTIVE GEOGRAPHY 


safe and commodious harbour, and an extensive trade. The city con¬ 
tains the royal palace, and a number of other public buildings. The 
hangar, or great iron warehouse, is remarkable for the immense quan¬ 
tity of that article deposited in it. 



Stockholm. 


4. Gottenburg is the second town in Sweden, in trade and population. 
Carlscrona is the station of the Swedish navy. Upsal is noted for its 
university, and Fahlun for its copper-mines. Several islands in the 
Baltic sea belong to Sweden, as does also the island of St. Bartholomew 
in the West Indies. 



Laplanders Travelling. 

LAPLAND. 


5. Lapland is a cold, desolate region, lying to the north 
of the Arctic circle. It belongs, nominally, to Sweden and 
Russia ; but such are the sterility of the soil and the poverty 
of the people, that they are led to themselves, and are not 
under the cognizance of any general government. 

6. The Laplanders are of short stature, being generally 
under five feet in height. They are a simple, harmless 
people; greatly attached to their native country, and are 
never known to leave it. War is their aversion, and no 
instance has ever occurred of any of them becoming soldiers. 


5. What is said of Lapland ? What is said of the soil, and people ? 
























RUSSIAN EMPIRE 


221 


7. The swift-footed reindeer, which they train to draw them in 
sledges over the snow, form their riches. The flesh and milk of these 
tmimals comprise their food, and the skins their furniture and clothing. 
The Laplanders move about from place to place, with their herds of 
reindeer, and seldom reside in towns. 



8. In summer, they live in 
tents, and in winter, in low, 
rude huts, formed of stones 
and earth, and covered with 
turfl The few villages found 
in this country are very small, 
seldom containing more than 
one or two hundred inhab¬ 
itants ; and the whole nation, 
though occupying a country 
nearly equal in extent to 
France, is supposed not to ex¬ 
ceed 30,000 individuals. 

9. These people have been 
nearly all converted to Chris¬ 
tianity, and are, generally, 
attached to its duties. Among them, great crimes are unknown. They 
never use profane language ; and observe the sabbath very strictly. 


Laplander’s Tent. 


Map No. 11. — What bounds Sweden on the north and west? D- 
Ms. — East ? G.-Ba., B.-Sa. —South ? B.-Sa. — Which are the prin¬ 

cipal rivers of Sweden ? Ta., Kx., La., Sa., 11., La., Dl., Ca. — Tell 
the length of each of these. The chief lakes? Mr., Wr., Wr.— 
How long are the two last ? What is the population of Stockholm ? 
Gottenburg ? Gcfle ? Carlscrona ? Calmar ? Upsal ? and Fahlun ? 


- 152 - 

RUSSIAN EMPIRE. 

1. The Russian Empire comprises nearly one-half of 
Europe and Asia, and part of North America. It reaches 
half-way round the globe, and embraces one-seventh part of 
the habitable world. 

2. This state has been much increased within the last 


6. Describe the Laplanders. 7. What is said of the reindeer ? 8. How 
do the Laplanders live in summer ? In winter ? What is said of the 
villages? Of the whole nation? 9. To what have the people been 
converted ? 

Russian Empire. Q. — 1. What does the Russian Empire comprise ? 
How far docs it reach ? 2. What is said of its increase ? Of its 







222 


DESCRIPTIVE GEOGRAPHY, 



Russian Army. 

seventy years, by the annexation of Finland, a great part of 
Poland, and various districts of Turkey and Persia. Its 
population, which, 100 years ago, was estimated at only 15 
millions, now numbers four times that amount. 

3. The inhabitants consist of a greater variety of different 
nations, than is to be found under any other government in 
the world. The chief races in European Russia are Russians, 
Poles, Finns, Tartars, and Cossacks. The latter form, in 
time of war, a most efficient part of the Russian army. 

4. The established religion is that of the Greek church, 
but all others are tolerated; and there are to be found in 
Russia, Roman Catholics, Protestants, Mahomedans, Jews, 
and Pagans. 

The government is an absolute monarchy. The Emperor 
is the head of church and state, and is styled the Autocrat of 
all the Russians. All power emanates from him, and he is 
considered to derive his authority from God alone. 

5. The military force of this empire is the largest in 
Europe, and is a source of anxiety to the neighbouring states. 
The regular army amounts to 700,000 men. The naval 
force, on the Black and Baltic seas, consists of between 200 


population 100 years ago ? 3. Of what do the inhabitants consist ? 

Name the chief races. 4. What is said of the religion ? Government? 
The Emperor? 5. Military force ? Army? Navy? 6. The com- 








RUSSIAN EMPIRE. 


223 

and 300 vessels of various kinds, and is considered to be, at 
present, in a very efficient condition. 

6. The commerce is extensive, and is annually increasing, 
having doubled in amount in about twenty-five years. The 
exports are tallow, hemp, sail-cloth, iron, timber, and grain. 
The manufactures have hitherto been rude, and chiefly con¬ 
fined to fabrics of hemp and flax ; but of late years, cotton, 
silk, and woollen goods of various kinds, have been made to 
some extent, as well as glass-ware, porcelain, paper, &c. 

7. Great fairs are held in different places, which attract vast crowds 
of merchants and traders from all parts. The inland commerce is 
much facilitated by the numerous rivers, canals, and lakes; and by the 
enow, in the winter season, over which sleighs travel with great rapid¬ 
ity. The chief internal trade is with China, Persia, Tartary, Turkey, 
&c. 

8. The seal and sturgeon fisheries of the river Volga, and 
of the Caspian and Black seas, are extensive and very pro¬ 
ductive. Upwards of 10,000 fishing-boats are employed on 
the Volga alone. A Steam Navigation Company has been 
formed, for the purpose of introducing steam-vessels upon the 
various seas, lakes, and rivers of this empire. 

9. The great body of the Russian people is divided into 
two classes, nobles and slaves. The former are often enor¬ 
mously wealthy, and live in great luxury and splendour ; the 
latter are the property of the nobles, who reckon the value of 
their estates, not by the number of acres, but of slaves. 

10. The slaves, or boors, are, generally, in a state of abject poverty 
and ignorance. They are rude in their manners, filthy in their habits, 
and much addicted to intoxication. Yet some of them possess great 
facility of imitation, and have been found capable of copying some of 
the finest works of art. 

11. The condition of Russia, as to education and refine¬ 
ment, though greatly behind the rest of Europe, is believed to 
be advancing. Considerable exertions have been made by 
the government, to introduce schools, and instruct the lower 
orders of the people. There are seven universities, and 
numerous seminaries of the higher class. 

merce ? Manufactures ? 7. Of fairs ? Inland commerce ? 8. Fish¬ 
eries, &.c. ? 9. How is the nation divided ? What is said of the 

nobles? Of the slaves? 10. Describe the slaves. 11. Of educa¬ 
tion, &c. ? 



224 


DESCRIPTIVE GEOGRAPHY 


153 



Russians leaving Moscow. 

RUSSIA IN EUROPE. 


1. This is the most extensive region in Europe. It com¬ 
prises more than one-half of the area of that division of the 
continent, and stretches from the Baltic sea to the Ural 
mountains. The surface is generally level; its chief features 
being vast plains and large rivers, with numerous lakes in 
the north-western quarter. 

2. In the northern parts of the country, it is intensely cold 
in winter, and mostly barren ; while in the southern districts 
the climate is mild and pleasant, and the soil is, in general, 
fertile and highly productive, yielding large crops of wheat, 
rye, oats, &c. 

3. The cold and dreary islands of Nova Zembla and 
Spitsbergen, belong to Russia; they lie to the northward of 
the Arctic circle, and are not inhabited by man. These 
islands abound with white bears, reindeer, seals, whales, &c., 
and are resorted to by hunters and fishermen. The islands 
of Aland, Dago, and Oesel, in the Baltic sea, also form part 
of this empire. 

Russia , in Europe. Q.— 1. What is said of this country? Of the 
surface? 2. The northern parts? Southern? 3. Of Nova Zembla 




















RUSSIAN EMPIRE. 


225 


4. Vast forests abound 
in various parts of Eu¬ 
ropean Russia. These 
furnish Riga and Memcl 
with large supplies of 
timber, pitch, tar, &c. 
which are sent to other 
parts of the continent. Russian Village. 

The habitations of the lower orders of the people, especially in tho 
villages, are formed of the rough trunks of trees, the interstices between 
which are filled with moss and clay, and the light admitted by square 
openings. They thus resemble piles of logs, rather than human hab¬ 
itations. 




5. St. Petersburg, the capital of Russia, is situated at the confluence 
of the river Neva with the Gulf of Finland. It was founded in 1703, 
by Peter the Great, and is now a magnificent city, with numerous 
palaces, churches, and other edifices. It is the principal place of com¬ 
merce for the empire, and the seat of its learning and science. 

6. Moscow, the old cap¬ 
ital, was one of the largest 
cities in Europe. It was 
deserted by the whole pop¬ 
ulation in 1812, and almost 
destroyed by fire, to prevent 
its affording an asylum to 
the army of the emperor 
Napoleon, who had invaded 
the country. It is now 
nearly rebuilt. One of the 
curiosities of Moscow is 
the great bell, the largest 
in the world ; it is 67 feet 
in circumference, 19 feet 
high, and weighs nearly 
200 tons. Among the nu¬ 
merous public buildings, 
the church of St. Basil is 
remarkable for the peculiar style of its architecture. 

7. Cronstadt, 22 miles from the capital, is the chief station of the 
Russian navy, and is noted for its extensive fortifications, docks, arse¬ 
nals, «fec. Riga, on the Baltic, Archangel, on the White sea, and Odes¬ 
sa, on the Black sea, are important sea-ports. The latter carries on a 
great trade in wheat. 


Church of St. Basil. 


and Spitsbergen ? What of Aland, &c. ? 4. What is said of tho 

forests ? Of the habitations, &c. ? 5. Describe St. Petersburg. 6. 
Moscow. Describe the great bell. 7. Describe Cronstadt, and th« 
other towns. 

15 











DESCRIPTIVE GEOGRAPHY. 


226 

Map No. 11. — What bounds Russia on the north ? A.-On. — What 
seas on the south ? Bk., Av. —What sea and gulf on the west ? Be., 
Ba. — What mountains on the east? Ul. — What rivers form the 
south-east boundary ? Va., Dn. — What rivers flow into the White 
sea? Me., Da., Oa. — Into the gulf of Riga? Da. — The gulf of 
Dantzick ? Va. — The sea of Azov ? Dn. — The Black sea ? Dr., 
Bg., Dr. — Tell the length of all these rivers. Which are the three 
principal lakes? Oa., La., Ps. — How long is each of these? What 
is the population of St. Petersburg ? Moscow ? Kazan ? Cronstadt ? 
Odessa? Riga? Wilna? Orel? Warsaw? Cracow? Lublin? 
On what gulf is St. Petersburg ? Cronstadt ? and Revel ? Fd. — 
How long is it ? How long is the gulf of Bothnia ? The White sea ? 
The Black sea ? 

- 154 -- 

POLAND. 

1. Poland, once an important state, was conquered and 
divided, in the year 1795, between Russia, Prussia, and 
Austria. In 1815, part of ancient Poland was erected into 
a kingdom, subject to the control of the Emperor of Russia, 
who, in consequence, added to his title, that of King of 
Poland. 

2. The tyranny of the Russians proving insupportable to 
the Poles, they, in the year 1830, attempted a revolution; but, 
after defeating their oppressors in several bloody battles, were 
at length overpowered by superior numbers, and forced to 
submit. Poland* is now incorporated with Russia, and no 
longer exists as a separate state. 

3. Many of the Polish patriots, preferring exile and poverty 
abroad, to oppression at home, have emigrated to other parts 
of the world, and some of them now reside in the United 
States. During the war of the American Revolution, two 
Polish generals of distinction, Kosciusko and Pulaski, came 
to this country, and took part with the Americans in the con¬ 
test with Great Britain. 

4. The people, as in Russia, are divided into two great classes, nobles 
and slaves. The nobles, who are more numerous than in any other 
country in Europe, have always, in the eye of the world, formed the 
people of Poland. They are brave, frank, jjnd hospitable, and so gay 


Poland. Q. — 1. What was Poland? What took place in 1815? 
2. In 1830 ? 3. What is said of the Polish patriots ? What officers 

came to this country? 4. How are the people divided? 5. Of the 





DENMARK. 227 

and lively in their manners, that they have been compared to the 
French. 

5. Some of the nobles possess vast estates, and live in great splendour; 
while the peasants inhabit wretched hovels, and are ignorant, bigoted, 
and extremely dirty. The Jews are more numerous in this country 
than in any other part of the continent. They are industrious, but 
crafty, and carry on all the trade and commerce of the country. These 
people enjoy more political freedom here, than in any of the neigh¬ 
bouring states. 

6. The climate of Poland is cold and moist, yet the soil is so pro¬ 
ductive in grain, that the annual export has been estimated at sixteen 
million bushels. Cattle, hemp, flax, wax, and honey, arc also exported. 

7. Warsaw was the capital of Poland. It has suffered greatly from 
the sieges and bombardments it has sustained. This place presents 
the same contrast, common in the cities of Poland and Russia, of 
splendid palaces and mean hovels, adjoining each other. Lublin is 
noted for its fairs, to which traders resort from all quarters. 

8. Republic of Cracow. — This little republic was formed in 1815, 
and consists of the city of Cracow, with a small surrounding territory, 
of about 500 square miles, and 160,000 inhabitants. Though the 
freedom it enjoys is only by sufferance, yet it has sufficed to render its 
soil more fertile, and better cultivated, than that of any other part of 
Poland. 

9. The city of Cracow was once the capital of Poland. It has a 
cathedral noted for its 50 altars and 1 6 chapels, and, also, a number of 
churches, monasteries, and convents. The city contains a remarkable 
monument, erected to the memory of the patriotic Kosciusko, 300 feet 
in height, and 275 feet in diameter at the base. 

- 155 - 

DENMARK. 

1. Denmark was formerly a powerful state, and exer¬ 
cised an extensive control over the adjacent countries; but it 
is now reduced in wealth and population, and ranks only as 
a third or fourth-rate kingdom. It comprises the peninsula 
of Jutland, and several islands lying in the entrance of the 
Baltic sea, with the duchies of Holstein and Lauenburg, in 
Germany. 

2. The climate is temperate, and, though moist, is healthy. 

nobles ? What do they possess, &c. ? Of the Jews ? 6. What is 

said of the climate, soil, &c. ? 7. Describe Warsaw. 8. The republic 

of Cracow. 9. The city, &c. 

Denmark. Q. —1. What was Denmark formerly? What is it now? 





228 


DESCRIPTIVE GEOGRAPHY. 



Copenhagen. 


The soil is generally fertile, and well adapted to the raising 
of grain and cattle. Manufactures are not much attended to ; 
but commerce and the fisheries are carried on with some 
activity. 

3. The Danes are an honest, industrious people, but are not remark¬ 
able for enterprise or improvement. Literature and science are on a 
respectable footing, being patronized by the government. There are 
universities at Copenhagen and Kiel, and common schools are numerous 
in almost all parts of the kingdom. 

4. The established religion of this country is the Lutheran, but all 
other sects are tolerated. The government is an absolute monarchy, 
but it is administered with, perhaps, more mildness, than any similar 
government in Europe. The king of Denmark is a member of the 
German Confederation, as sovereign of Holstein and Lauenberg. 

5. The foreign possessions of this kingdom are Greenland, Iceland, 
and the Faroe isles, the islands of St. Thomas and Santa Cruz, in the 
West Indies, some factories on the gold coast of Africa, with Tranque- 
bar and Serampore, in Hindoostan. 

6. Iceland is a cold and dreary region, inhabited by a simple, mbrah 
and industrious race, who are better educated than the common people 
of almost any other country in Europe. It is celebrated for its volcano, 
its caldrons of boiling mud, and its hot-springs, called geysers, which 
spout up boiling water to the height of 100 feet. 

7. Copenhagen, the capital of Denmark, is one of the most handsome 
cities of northern Europe. It has a good harbour, with considerable 
commerce, and is noted for its vast docks, and extensive fortifications. 

8. Elsinore, situated at the narrowest part of the sound, or entrance 
to the Baltic, is the place where all ships which trade to that sea are 

2. What does it comprise ? What is said of the climate? 3. Of the 
Danes ? Of literature and science ? 4. Established religion ? 

Government, &c.? 5. Foreign possessions? 6. Describe Iceland. 

For what is it celebrated ? 7. Describe Copenhagen. 8. Elsinore, &c. 






THE NETHERLANDS. 


229 


obliged to pay a heavy toll. The money received here pays a large 
portion of the expenses of the Danish government. Altona, on the 
Elbe, two miles from Hamburg, is, next to Copenhagen, the most im¬ 
portant place in Denmark. Its inhabitants, 28,000 in number, are 
engaged chiefly in commerce. Flcnsburg and Sleswick aie important 
towns. 


Map No. 11. — What bounds Denmark on the north? S.-Rk.— 
South ? Elr. — East ? Ct. — West ? N.-Sa. — What peninsula forms 
the chief part of Denmark? Jd.— What two islands lie east of 
Jutland ? Fn., Zd. —On what island is Copenhagen ? Zd. — What is 
the population of Copenhagen ? Flensburg ? Sleswick ? Elsinore ? 
In what direction from Denmark are the Faroe isles ? Iceland ? Ilow 
many miles is it from Jutland to Scotland ? Which is the principal of 
the Faroe isles ? The population ? How long and wide is Iceland ? 
What two towns are in Iceland ? Rg., St. — Capes ? Nil. Cy. — Bays ? 
Be., Fe. 

- 156 - 

THE NETHERLANDS. 

1. The late kingdom of the Netherlands, comprising 
Holland and Belgium, was formed in 1814, and abolished in 
1830, by a revolt of the people of the latter state, and the 
erection of their country into a separate kingdom. 

HOLLAND. 

2. Holland is the most level country in Europe, and much 
of its surface is below the level of the sea, which is prevented 
from overflowing the land by extensive dikes, or embank¬ 
ments. 

3. The climate is cold, moist, and unfavourable to agricul¬ 
ture ; yet the industry of the inhabitants has converted their 
marshy soil into one of the richest spots in Europe. The cattle, 
butter, and cheese, are excellent; and the gardens and orch¬ 
ards are cultivated with uncommon care. 

4. In commerce, manufactures, and the fisheries, the Dutch formerly 
excelled all other European nations. These branches are still consider¬ 
able, but are now much surpassed by those of Great Britain. Canals 
are more numerous in this country, than in any other part of the world. 
In summer, all the travelling is performed in canal-boats; and in winter, 
when frozen, the canals are travelled over by sleighs, and by the people 
on skates. 


The Netherlands. Q. — 1. What did the Netherlands comprise, See. ? 
2. What is said of Holland ? 3. Of the climate ? The cattle, &c. ? 







230 


DESCRIPTIVE GEOGRAPHY 


5. The Dutch 
are remarkable for 
their industry, fru¬ 
gality, and neat¬ 
ness. Smoking 
tobacco is a prac¬ 
tice almost univer¬ 
sal amongst them, 
and a Hollander is 
hardly ever seen 

without a pipe in 
Peasantry in Holland. his mouth< The 

dress and appearance of the peasantry, in some parts of Holland, are 
peculiar, and have not varied in a long series of years. The prevailing 
religion is the Presbyterian, but all others are tolerated, and the minis¬ 
ters of all sects are supported by the government. 

6. Amsterdam, the principal city of the kingdom, is still a place of 
great commerce, although much declined from its former wealth and 
importance. The city is intersected by numerous canals, over which 
there are near 300 bridges. The houses and streets are kept remark- 
ubly clean. 

7. The Stadt-House is the most splendid building in Holland. It 
rests upon a foundation of 13,659 piles, or long timbers, driven into the 
ground. It is built of freestone, with a front of 282 feet. It contains 
numerous paintings, statues, See., and cost nine million dollars. Rot¬ 
terdam is next to Amsterdam in commerce. 




View of the Hague.' 


8. The Hague is the capital of Holland. It is one of the best- 
built cities in Europe. It contains many handsome buildings, and 
is intersected by numerous canals, which are bordered by rows of 
trees. The inhabitants amount to 50,000. 

9. Leyden and Utrecht are famous for their universities. The for¬ 
mer is noted for a siege that it sustained in 1573, against the Spaniards, 


4. The commerce, Sec. ? What is said of canals ? 5. For what aro 

the Dutch remarkable? Of religion? 6. Describe Amsterdam. 
7. The Stadt-Housc. 8. The Hague. 9. Leyden, &c. 








BELGIUM. 231 

when the women performed all the duties of soldiers. This city con¬ 
tains 30,000 inhabitants, and Utrecht about 45,000. 

Map No. 11. — What bounds Holland on the north and west ? N.- 

Sa. — On the south ? Brn. — East ? Hr., Pa. — What river flows 
through this country ? Re. — How long is it ? What bay lies north 
of Amsterdam? Z.-Ze.— What country lies due west from Holland ? 
Ed. — How many miles is it by the scale ? What sea separates Holland 
and England ? Nh— How many inhabitants has Amsterdam ? Rotter¬ 
dam ? Groningen ? 


157 



Brussels. 


'BELGIUM. 

1. Belgium, or Flanders, is, in proportion to its extent, the 
most thickly-peopled kingdom in Europe. It is filled with 
populous cities, and covered with places remarkable in his¬ 
tory, as the scenes of great victories and defeats, among 
which are Waterloo, Charleroi, Fleurus, &c. 

2. The country is extremely beautiful, being mostly level 
with a fertile soil, and so highly cultivated, that it has been 
called the garden of Europe. The productions are grain, 
flax, madder, hops, tobacco, &e. The canals in Belgium are 
spacious and commodious, connecting all the great cities, 
though they are not so numerous as in Holland. 

3. The Belgians, formerly called Flemings, have long ex¬ 
celled in manufactures and the arts. They are no Jess 
industrious and persevering than the Dutch, but are more 
lively in their manners, and approach nearer the French, 
whom they prefer. 

4. They are generally strict Catholics, are fond of religious proces- 


Bclgium. Q. — 1. What is Belgium? With what is it filled? 2. 
What is said of the country ? The productions ? 3. Of the Belgians? 











232 DESCRIPTIVE GEOGRAPHY. 

sions, and other observances of that kind. There are a few Protestants in 
Belgium, and their ministers, as well as those of the other sects, are 
all paid by the government. 

5. The universities of Brussels, Louvain, Liege, and Ghent, are all in 
a flourishing condition, and are attended by a considerable number of 
pupils. The provision made for general instruction in this country is 
extensive; there are schools in every village, and the lower orders are 
amongst the best educated in Europe. 

6. Brussels, the capital of this kingdom, is one of the finest cities in 
Europe ; it is distinguished for its public walks and fountains, and for 
its extensive manufactures of carpets and lace. Ten miles south of 
this city, is the little village of Waterloo, celebrated for the important 
battle fought there in 1815. 



Antwerp. 


7. Antwerp is the most commercial city in Belgium, and, in the 
height of its prosperity, was one of the most wealthy and flourishing 
cities in Europe. Its commerce has greatly declined, and the popula¬ 
tion, once 200,000 in number, is not at present more than one-third 
that amount; the city is surrounded by a wall, with carriage roads on 
the top, planted with rows of trees: the Cathedral is one of the finest 
Gothic structures in the world, and is 441 feet high. 

8. Ghent and Liege have both considerable manufactures. At the 
former city, the treaty of peace between the United States and Great 
Britain, was signed in 1814. Bruges was once famous for its com¬ 
merce, but has greatly declined. Tournay is noted for its manufac¬ 
tures of carpets and porcelain; Mons for its coal-mines; Louvain for 
its university, and Namur for its fire-arms and cutlery. 

Map No. 11. — What bounds Belgium on the north? Hd., I^.-Sa. 
— South? Fe. — East? Pa. — Which is the principal river of Bel¬ 
gium ? Ans. — The Meuse : the city ofLiege is on its west bank : the 
river is 400 miles long. IIow many inhabitants has Brussels ? Ghent ? 
Antwerp ? Liege ? 


4. What are they generally ? 5. What is said of the universities ? 

6. Describe Brussels. 7. Antwerp. 8. Ghent. Liege, &c. 












GREAT BRITAIN AND IRELAND. 


233 



158- 


Great Britain and Ireland. Q. — 1. What does the united kingdom 
comprise ? Of what does it consist ? 2. What do its possessions em¬ 
brace ? What is said of the population ? 3. Of Great Britain ? The 


GREAT BRITAIN AND IRELAND. 

1. The united kingdom of Great Britain and Ireland com¬ 
prises the kingdoms of England, Scotland, and Ireland, with 
the principality of Wales. It consists of the islands of 
Great Britain and Ireland, commonly called the British Isles. 

2. The possessions of this kingdom embrace colonies in 
Asia, Africa, America, and Oceanica, which, with the Eu¬ 
ropean part, form the British Empire. The population of the 
whole is estimated at more than 150 millions of people, com¬ 
prising, with the exception of China, the greatest number 
of subjects under the control of any one sovereign in the 
world. 

3. Great Britain is one of the most influential states in 
the world, and surpasses every other for the extent and variety 
of its manufactures, and for its commercial and naval im¬ 
portance. The intelligence, enterprise, and industry of its 
inhabitants are no where equalled, except in the United 
States. 

4. The government is a limited hereditary monarchy, 








234 


DESCRIPTIVE GEOGRAPHY 


The sovereign power is vested in a king or queen, lords, and 
commons. The two last form the parliament, or great coun¬ 
cil of the nation, a body to which the Congress of the United 
States bears a strong resemblance. 

5. The nation is divided into three great classes, the nobil¬ 
ity, gentry, and commonalty. The first comprises dukes, 
marquises, earls, viscounts, and barons. The gentry includes 
all those who are distinguished for wealth, education, talents, 
or office ; and the commonalty comprises tradesmen, artificers, 
and labourers. 

6. The principal national force is the navy, which, in time of war, 
has numbered 1000 vessels, manned by 170,000 sailors and marines. 
The army amounted, at the same time, to upwards of 300,000 men ; 
but is now reduced to about one-third that amount. The present naval 
forbe, in actual service, is near 200 sail. The national debt, contract¬ 
ed in about 150 years, is 3,500 million dollars, to pay the interest of 
which, requires three-fifths of the annual income of the state. 

7. The manufactures of this country are immense, and have raised 
Great Britain to a decided superiority over all other nations. Cotton, 
woollen and silk goods, with the manufacture of metals of various 
kinds, are the most important. The produce of the fisheries and the 
mines is very great; and the coal trade, alone, is estimated to employ 
160,000 persons. 

8. The commerce of Great Britain is superior to that of any other 
nation, and extends to all quarters of the world. The merchant-vessels, 
including those of the colonies, amount to upwards of 27,000 in num¬ 
ber, and are navigated by 180,000 men. One-sixth of the shipping 
belongs to the port of London, and two-thirds of the commerce is car¬ 
ried on at that city. From 35,000 to 38,000 vessels enter the ports of 
Great Britain every year. 

9. Population of the British Empire and Colonies. 


Great Britain and Ireland . 25,000,000 

North America . 1,360,000 

West Indies and South America. 845,000 

Africa. 300,000 

East India Company’s territories. 123,000,000 

Ceylon, Provinces in Chin-India, &c. 2,000,000 

Oceanica... 121,000 


Total 152,626,000 

inhabitants ? 4. Government ? 5. How is the nation divided ? 6. What 
is said of the national force ? Debt ? 7. Manufactures ? Fisheries 

and mines ? 8. Commerce ? What belongs to London, &c. ? 9. What 
part of the British empire has the most inhabitants? What part has 
the next greater number ? How many subjects has Great Britain in 
America ? 











ENGLAND. 235 

- 159 - 



Windsor Castle. 

ENGLAND. 


1. England embraces the southern part of Great Britain, 
and is the largest and most populous division of the island. 
It has great variety of surface, but is chiefly level or gently 
undulating, and abounds in beautiful and interesting scenery. 

2. The climate, though moist and cool, is healthful, and less 
subject to the extremes of heat and cold than most other 
countries in the same latitudes. 

3. The soil of England is not naturally rich, yet the agri- 
i culture is superior to that of any other country in Europe. 
I The chief products are wheat, barley, oats, hops, &c. 

4. In no part of the world, perhaps, is wealth more unequal¬ 
ly distributed than in England, and seldom do the cottages 
of the poor contrast so strongly with the mansions of the rich. 
Costly and splendid buildings are spread over various parts 
of the kingdom, and many of the parks and country-seats of 
the nobility and gentry, display a princely magnificence. 

5. Though luxury and corruption exist to a considerable extent in 
I certain portions of English society, yet the great mass of the people is 
distinguished by sound morals. Benevolence may be considered a 
striking feature in the national character; and in no country are there 

England. Q. — 1. What does England embrace ? What is said of 
the surface, &c. 2. Of the climate ? 3. Soil? Products? 4. What 

is said of wealth ? 5. Luxury, &c. Benevolence ? 6. Literary in- 














236 DESCRIPTIVE GEOGRAPHY. 

so many associations, for charitable, benevolent, and religious pur¬ 
poses. 

G. The literary institutions, and learned men of this country, are 
highly distinguished, and no language excels the English, in all the 
treasures of poetry, eloquence, philosophy, and science. Great exer¬ 
tions are made by various religious associations, to spread the Christian 
religion and civilization among the heathen ; and numerous mission¬ 
aries have been sent to various parts of the earth, for that purpose. 

7. No general provision has been devised for the education of the 
poorer classes, but special efforts are now making for that purpose. 
Many of the people are extremely ignorant, and numbers are wholly 
dependent on Sunday schools for instruction. The higher seminaries 
of learning are very numerous, and furnish great facilities for obtain¬ 
ing a superior education. 

8. The Episcopal is the established religion, and the sovereign is 
the supreme head of the church, which is governed by two Archbishops 
and 25 Bishops. The members of other churches are called dissent¬ 
ers : they comprise Methodists, Baptists, Presbyterians, Roman Catho¬ 
lics, <fcc., and constitute about one-half of the population. 

9. This country is noted for its excellent roads, and substantial 
bridges. Canals are numerous, and cross the island in every direction, 
and, with well-constructed rail-roads, greatly facilitate the vast inland 
trade of the kingdom. 

- 160 - 

WALES. 

10. Wales is a mountainous and rugged region, situated 
to the westward of England. The soil is less fertile and 
cultivated than in that kingdom, but the products are the 
same. 

11. The manufactures are chiefly of flannel, in which the 
Welsh excel. The minerals are abundant, and consist of 
iron, lead, copper, and coal. Vast quantities of iron, chiefly 
for rail-roads,, are imported into the United States from 
Wales. 

12. This country, previous to the year 1283, was governed by its 
own kings; but since that time it has been united to England, and the 
oldest son of the King of England is styled Prince of Wales. 

13. The Strait, which separates Wales from the island of Anglesea, 

stitutions, &,c. 7. Education ? Highest seminaries of learning, &c. ? 
8. Religion? Dissenters? 9. Roads, bridges, <fec.? 

10. What is said of Wales? The soil, &c. ? 11. Manufactures ? 

Minerals, &c. ? 12. When was Wales governed by its own kings ? 

When was it united to England? 13. What is said of the Menai 
bridge, See. ? 





ENGLAND 


237 

is crossed by the Menai bridge, one of the most remarkable works of the 
kind in the world; it consists of immense iron chains, which connect 



Menai Bridge. 


arches of masonry, 560 feet apart; thus forming a safe and useful 
structure. 

14. London, the capital of the British Empire, is built on both sides 
of the river Thames. It covers a vast extent of ground, being about 
8 miles in length, and from 3 to 5 in breadth. It is admirably situated 
for trade, and is the richest, most populous, and most commercial city 
in the world. 



Westminster Abbey. 

15. It contains a great number of public buildings, of which St. 
Paul’s Cathedral, the Tower, Westminster Abbey, and the Bank of 
England, are the chief. The bridges of London attract attention, by 
their beauty and utility; they are six in number, all built of stone, 
except one, which is constructed of iron. 

16. London presents a striking contrast of wealth, intelligence, and 
morality, with ignorance, poverty, and vice. No city in the world has 
so great a number of learned societies, and literary and scientific estab- 


England. Q. —14. Describe London. 15. What does it contain? 
16. What does London present? 17. Describe Greenwich. Chelsea. 









238 


DESCRIPTIVE GEOGRAPHY 



lishments ; and none can compare with it in its charities for the poor, 
the sick, and the ignorant. 

17. Five miles below London, on the Thames, is Greenwich, famous 
for its naval hospital for infirm seamen, and its observatory, from 
which longitude is reckoned. Above London is Chelsea, containing 
the great national asylum for invalid soldiers. Windsor, 22 miles from 
London, is celebrated for its castle, which has been the summer resi¬ 
dence of the sovereigns of England, for upwards of 700 years. 

18. Liverpool is next to London, in commerce. It is the principal 
seat of the trade with America, and is rapidly increasing in wealth 
and prosperity. 

Manchester is the second place in England in population, and is 
famous for its cotton manufactures. Oxford, and Cambridge, are cele¬ 
brated for their universities, and to them owe their celebrity and im¬ 
portance. * 

19. Birmingham is noted for its manufactures of hardware. Shef¬ 
field for cutlery. Leeds and other places for woollen cloths. Kidder¬ 
minster for carpets. Worcester for porcelain. Bristol and Hull for 
their shipping. Portsmouth, and Plymouth, are the great naval stations 
of the kingdom. Bath is esteemed the handsomest city in England, 
and is famous for its mineral springs. 

20. Mertheyn Tydvil is the largest town in Wales. It is situated in 
the midst of numerous iron founderies and furnaces. Population, 


18. What is Liverpool? Manchester? 19. For what is Birmingham 
noted ? Leeds, and other places ? 20. Describe Mertheyn Tydvil. 
Swansea, and the other towns. 












SCOTLAND. 


239 


22,000. Swansea is a noted resort for sea-bathing 1 ; population, 
13,600. Caermarthen, and Caernarvon, are both places of importance. 
The chief ornament of the latter is its castle, once a stately edifice, but 
now in ruins. 


Map No. 11. — What bounds England on the north ? Sd. — South ? 
E.-Cl. — East? N.-Sa. — West? Ws., I.-Sa. — What strait separates 
it from France? Dr. — What channel? Eh. — What channel be¬ 
tween England and Wales? Bl.—What island lies south of Eng¬ 
land ? Wt. — What lies west ? Mn. — What is the south-west point 
of England ? L.-Ed. — What islands lie south-west of the Land’s End ? 
Sy.— What islands in the south part of the English Channel ? Jy. ( 
Gy.— These, with Alderney and Sark, belong to England, though on 
I the coast of France; they are often called the Norman isles. How 
many inhabitants has London ? Manchester ? Liverpool ? Leeds ? 
Bristol ? Hull ? Portsmouth ? Newcastle ? On what river is Lon¬ 
don ? Ts. — How far is it from England to Newfoundland? 

- 161 - 

SCOTLAND. 

1. Scotland is situated to the north of England, and is 
celebrated for the grandeur and wildness of its scenery. It 
is divided by the Grampian hills into two sections, the High¬ 
lands and the Lowlands. 

2. The Highlands is a cold, hilly region, well adapted for 
pasturage; but the Lowlands is an agreeably diversified 
country, with a tolerable soil, which is well cultivated, and 
produces oats, wheat, rye, barley, and potatoes, to a consid¬ 
erable extent. 

3. The manufactures are flourishing and important, espe¬ 
cially those of cotton. The principal minerals are coal, iron, 
and lead, of which the two first are very abundant. The 
commerce and the fisheries are valuable, and give employ- 

j ment to a great number of the inhabitants. 

4. The Scotch, as a nation, are grave, serious, and reflecting ; but, at 
the same time, enterprising. They are, in general, better instructed, 
and more moral and religious in their habits, than any other people in 
Europe. Many of the natives of this country have distinguished them¬ 
selves in various branches of literature, and some of them have been 
amongst the most celebrated philosophers, historians, and poets, of 
Great Britain. 


Scotland. Q .— 1. How is Scotland situated? Divided? 2. Describe 
the highlands. Lowlands. Products. 3. The manufactures. Min- 









240 


DESCRIPTIVE GEOGRAPHY 


5. The Hebrides, Orkney, and Shetland isles, belong to Scotland. 
These are the resort of an immense number of sea-fowl, which the 
islanders catch by swinging with ropes from the high perpendicular 
cliffs to which they resort. 



Edinburg. 


6. Edinburg is the metropolis of Scotland, and has long been dis¬ 
tinguished as the seat of science and literature. Its university is 
particularly noted, and contains a greater number of students than any 
other in Europe. The city has few manufactures; it carries on, how¬ 
ever, a considerable trade through Leith, which, though formerly about 
two miles distant, is now connected with it by continuous ranges of 
buildings. 

7. Glasgow is the largest city in Scotland, and owes its prosperity 
chiefly to manufactures. It contains a large number of handsome 
buildings, mostly of modern construction. Its university is celebrated, 
and the cathedral is the best preserved specimen of Gothic architecture 
in Scotland. 

8. Paisley is noted for its muslin manufactures, and Aberdeen for its j 
ship-building. Greenock is the port of Glasgow, and the most com¬ 
mercial place in Scotland. Dundee, Perth, and Inverness are all im- ■ 
portant towns. 

Map No. 11. — What bounds Scotland on the north and west ? A.-On* j 
— South? Ed., I.-Sa. — East? N.-Sa. — What separates this king- i 
dom from Ireland? N.-Cl. — From the Hebrides? Mh. — What 
firths arc on the east coast ? My., Fh. Firth is the term used in 
Scotland for bay. — What islands north? Oy., Sd. — West? Hs. or 
W.-Is. — What large island south-west ? Id. — What is the population 
of Glasgow ? Edinburg ? Aberdeen ? Paisley ? Perth ? Inverness ? 
How far is Scotland from Labrador ? 


erals. Commerce, &c. 4. Describe the Scotch. 5. The Hebrides, ! 

&c. 6. Describe Edinburg. Its universities. 7. Glasgow. 8. Paisley, 

Aberdeen, and the other towns. 








IRELAND. 


241 



The Giant’s Causeway. 


- 162 - 

IRELAND. 

1 . Ireland is a fine fertile island, lying west of Great 
Britain. The climate is mild and moist, which produces a 
beautiful and continued verdure, and has led to its poetical 
appellations of the Emerald Isle, and Green Erin. 

2. The surface of the country is moderately uneven, with 
few mountains. There are many peat bogs, which supply 
fuel, but are useless for other purposes. 

3. Agriculture is in a less improved state than in England 
or Scotland. Barley, oats, wheat, and flax, are extensively 
cultivated ; but potatoes are the chief product, and form the 
principal food of the poor. 

4. Grazing, and the dairy, are the best-managed parts of 
Irish husbandry, and produce the best beef, and butter, in 
Europe. Linen is manufactured to some extent, and forms, 
with the products of the soil, the chief exports of the country. 

5. The people of Ireland are generous, quick-witted, and 
hospitable; they are, however, easily offended, and prone to 
resentment. Though the Episcopal is the established re¬ 
ligion, yet four-fifths of the inhabitants are Roman Catholics. 
Many of them are ignorant of the English tongue, and use 
the Irish only, a language similar to that spoken by the 
Scotch Highlanders. 

Ireland. Q. — 1. What is Ireland? What is said of the climate? 
2. The surface, &c. 3. Agriculture ? Chief products ? 4. Grazing, 

&c. Linen ? 5. Describe the people. Religion. 6. Of the peas- 
16 










242 


DESCRIPTIVE GEOGRAPHY 


6. The great mass of the peasantry live in a state of abject poverty 
and wretchedness. They are degraded by the oppression of the great 
landlords, and their agents. The payment of church tithes, and nu¬ 
merous taxes, swallows up their earnings, and discourages the spirit of 
industry. Beggars are numerous, and, notwithstanding the natural 
fertility of Ireland, many of the poor have perished with hunger. 

7. The Giant’s Causeway, which is situated on the north coast of the 
island, is an astonishing work of nature. It consists of vast numbers 
of perpendicular columns of basaltic rock, rising from 200 to 400 feet 
above the surface of the water. 

8. Dublin is the chief city of Ireland : some of its streets are truly 
magnificent, and its public edifices are numerous and beautiful. Among 

the latter, St. Pat¬ 
rick’s Cathedral, the 
Bank of Ireland, the 
Exchange, and the 
Four Courts, are 
conspicuous. The 
chief parts of the 
suburbs, and some 
streets in the city, 
are the abodes of 
thousands who live 
in the most abject 
Four Courts, Dublin. wretchedness and 

distress: indeed, few 
places exhibit a greater contrast between wealth and poverty, than 
Dublin. 

9. Cork is the second city in Ireland. Its harbour, called the Cove, is 
capacious and strongly fortified. The commerce of this place is exten¬ 
sive, and it exports great quantities of salted provisions. Limerick, 
Belfast, Galway, Waterford, and Londonderry, are all important towns ; 
the two first are situated in fertile, populous districts, and have an 
extensive trade. 


Map No. 11. — What bounds Ireland on the north, south, and west? 
A.-On. — On the east? I.-Sa. — What separates it from England?, 
I.-Sa. — From Wales? S.-Gs.-Cl. — From Scotland ? N.-Cl. — What 
is the south cape of Ireland ? Cr. — What river flows into the Atlan¬ 
tic ? Sn. —What island on the west coast ? Al. — What bays ? By., 
Dl. — How many inhabitants has Dublin ? Cork ? Limerick ? Bel¬ 
fast? Galway? Waterford? Londonderry? How far is it from 
Ireland to Labrador ? How long is Ireland ? How wide ? 



antry ? Beggars ? 7. Describe the Giant’s Causeway. 8. Dublin. 
9. Cork, and the other towns. 






Making Wine. Gathering Grapes. 

FRANCE. 

1. France is a great and powerful kingdom, and has 
for ages been distinguished for the important part it has en¬ 
acted in the affairs of Europe. 

2. The country is beautiful and fertile, and the climate 
temperate, dry, and salubrious. The chief part of France is 
one widely extended plain, a large portion of which is well 
adapted to cultivation. 

3. Agriculture is more improved than in many other parts 
of Europe. The manufactures are productive and various; 
and the commerce, though not so extensive as that of Great 
Britain or the United States, is carried on to almost all parts 
of the globe. 

4. The chief products of the soil are wheat, Indian-corn, grapes, 
olives, some tobacco, and the sugar-beet. The vineyards of France 
yield 250 different kinds of wine; they occupy 5 million acres of 
ground, and their annual produce is from 800 to 900 million gallons. 

5. The French are a brave, active, and ingenious people, polite and 
gay in their manners, and fond of show and amusement. The chief 
part of the inhabitants of France are but imperfectly educated, not more 

j than one-half being able to read and write ; yet no country presents great¬ 
er facilities for acquiring knowledge in all its branches. 

France. Q. — 1. What is France ? 2. What is said of the country ? 
3. Of agriculture, &c.? 4. Products? Vineyards? 5. Describe the 


243 


FRANCE. 
— 163 — 

















244 


DESCRIPTIVE GEOGRAPHY. 


6. Colleges, schools, and public libraries, are numerous, and the city 
of Paris contains the most celebrated scientific association in the world. 
There is no established religion in France, and the ministers of all the 
different sects are supported by the government. The chief part of the 
inhabitants, however, belong to the Roman Catholic church. 

7. France has long held a high rank, as a military power. Under 
the late Emperor Napoleon, the army amounted to a million of men, 
and was the terror of continental Europe. It now amounts to upwards 
of 400,000 men. The navy is on a respectable footing, and comprises 
280 vessels of all classes, of which 55 are of the line, and 20 steam- 
vessels. 

8. Paris, the capital of France, is the second city in Europe for size, 
and probably the first in splendour. The public buildings and palaces 
are numerous, and, generally, excel those of London. It is also noted 
for the beauty of its public gardens, fountains, and monuments, and for 
the value of its libraries and literary institutions. It is especially dis¬ 
tinguished for the gaiety and dissipation of its inhabitants, and the 
variety of its public amusements. 



Lyons. 


9. Lyons, situated on the Rhone, is the second city in France. It 
has been long noted for its silk manufactures, and its gold and silver 
stulfs. Marseilles is the principal sea-port in the Mediterranean 
Bordeaux is well known for its wines; Rouen for its manufactures of 
cotton, woollen, and linen; and Strasburg for its cathedral, the steeple 
of which is the most lofty of any in Europe. 

10. Rheims, Lille, Nantes, and Orleans, are important places. Tou¬ 
lon is the chief naval station on the Mediterranean ; and Brest, on the 
Atlantic, is the principal naval depot in the kingdom. Havre, at the 
mouth of the Seine, is the sea-port of Paris, and the chief seat of the 
trade of France with the United States. 

11. The island of Corsica, in the Mediterranean sea, belongs to 
France. Its surface is mountainous, and its soil is stony and ill culti¬ 
vated. It has some valuable iron-mines, and there are important fish- 

French. Of the chief part of the inhabitants ? 6. Colleges, &c. ? 

Religion? 7. What is said of military power? Army? Navy? 
8. Describe Paris. 9. Lyons, &c. 10. Rheims. Lille, &c. 11. Cor¬ 

sica. 








SPAIN. 245 

eries on the coast. Bastia is the chief town, and Ajaccio was the birth¬ 
place of Napoleon Bonaparte. 

Map No. 11. — What bounds France on the north? E.-CI., Bm.— 
South ? Sn., M.-Sa. — East ? Bn., Sd., Sa. — West ? B.-By. — What 
river flows into the English channel ? Se. — Into the Bay of Biscay ? 
Le., Ge. — Into the Gulf of Lyons ? Re. — How long is each of 
these rivers? What river forms the boundary between France and 
Baden? Re. — What lake does the Rhone flow from ? Ga. — What 
mountains separate France from Spain ? Ps. — From Sardinia ? As. 
— What mountains between the Rhone and the Loire? Cs.— West 
of the * Loire? Ae. — What is the population of Paris ? t Mar¬ 
seilles ? Lyons? t Bordeaux ? § Rouen ? Nantes? |] Lille ? 

Toulouse ? Strasburg ? Orleans ? ** Toulon ? What island in tho 

Mediterranean sea belongs to France? Ca. — How long and wide is 
it ? How many inhabitants has Bastia ? tt Ajaccio ? How far is it from 
France to Canada? To Nova Scotia? How many miles in extent is 
France from north to south ? From east to west? 



Madrid. 


SPAIN. 

1. Spain was once the most powerful and important kingdom 
in Europe, but it is now among the most feeble and least 
influential. 

2. It is traversed by several chains of mountains, which 
cause the surface of the country to be greatly diversified 
with beautiful and romantic scenery. The soil is generally 
fertile ,* but agriculture is much neglected, and, owing to the 

Spain. Q .— 1. What was Spain? 2. By what is it traversed? 

* Loire, Lwor + Marseilles, Mar-salze'. \ Bordeaux, Boor-do' 

$ Rouen, Roo-ong'. II Lille, Lele. IT Toulouse, Too-loos'. 

** Toulon, Too-Iong'. tt Ajaccio, Ajat'-sho. 

















246 DESCRIPTIVE GEOGRAPHY. 

anarchy and civil wars which have Tong prevailed, manufac- i 
tures and commerce are reduced to a deplorable state. 

3. The exports are wines, 
brandy, raisins, wool, silk, ba¬ 
rilla, &c.: the imports are chief¬ 
ly British manufactures and colo¬ 
nial produce. The rearing of 
Merino Sheep is an important 1 
branch of industry in Spain, and l 
the fineness of the wool is well 
known: a few years ago, these 
18 millions, attended by 16,000 

shepherds. 

4. The Roman Catholic is the only religion tolerated in this coun¬ 
try. The clergy were formerly very rich and powerful, and possessed 
great influence; but various causes have of late combined to diminish 
their importance. There is a number of universities in Spain, but 
they are far behind those of other European countries, and seem rather 
calculated to perpetuate error than to introduce the lessons of truth: 
there is but little encouragement for general education, and very few 
of the lower class learn to read and write. 

5. Gravity of manner, with great pride of birth and rank, distin¬ 
guish the higher class of Spaniards: but those of the lower order are 
cheerful, frugal, good-humoured, and courteous. The favourite amuse¬ 
ments of the people are music, dancing, and bull-fights : the latter 
exhibitions are generally attended by thousands of both sexes and of 
all ranks, and are looked upon with enthusiastic delight. 

6. Spain formerly possessed immense territories in North and South 
America; but of all these vast possessions, Cuba and Porto Rico alone 
remain to her. The other colonies consist of the Canary Islands in 
the Atlantic Ocean, and the Philippine, Caroline, and Ladrone Islands 
in the Pacific. 

7. Madrid, the capital of Spain, has neither commerce nor manufac¬ 
tures, and derives its importance solely from being the seat of govern¬ 
ment. It contains a number of churches and convents, and several 
splendid palaces. It is a handsome though gloomy city. Barcelona 
and Cadiz are the chief sea-ports. Granada, Valencia, Cordova, and 
Saragossa, are among the principal cities. 

8. Gibraltar, at the southern extremity of Spain, is the strongest 


What is said of the soil, &c. ? 3. Exports ? Imports? Merino Sheep? 

4. What is said of religion ? Universities ? Education ? 5. What 

is said of the higher class ? Lower orders ? Amusements ? 6. What 

did this country formerly possess ? Of the colonies ? 7. Describe 

Madrid. Barcelona, &c. 8. Gibraltar. Balearic isles. 9. Andorra. 



Merino Sheep. 

animals were estimated at 




PORTUGAL. 247 

fortification in the world. It was captured by the English in 1704, 
and has continued in their possession ever since. 

The Balearic Isles comprise Majorca, Minorca, Ivica, and some 
smaller islands : they are inhabited by a peaceable and simple people. 
Port Mahon, in Minorca, is often resorted to by United States’ ships 
of war. 

9. Andorra.— This little republic, with a territory of 190 square 
miles, and a population of 15,000 inhabitants, occupies a valley on the 
southern side of the Pyrenees. Besides Andorra, the capital, a town, 
of 2,000 inhabitants, it contains five small villages. 


Map No. 11. — What bounds Spain on the north? Fe., B.-By.— 
South ? M.-Sa., A.-On.— East? M-Sa. — West ? PL— Which are 

the chief rivers of Spain ? Do., Ts., Ga., Gr., Eo. — ifow long are 
each of these ? Which are the chief mountains ? Ps., Cn., S.-Ma., S.-Na. 
— Which separate France from Spain ? Ps. — What mountain lies 
west of Barcelona ? Mt. — This is noted for its singular form and the 
monasteries built on it. What islands lie cast of Spain ? Be. — What 
strait separates Spain from Africa ? Gr.— IIow wide is it ? What is 
the population of Madrid ? Barcelona ? Seville ? Granada ? Valen¬ 
cia ? Cordova ? Cadiz ? Malaga ? Saragossa ? 


165 



Lisbon. 


PORTUGAL. 

1. This kingdom, like Spain, has declined from its former 
greatness. Three centuries ago, it was celebrated for the 
valour of its soldiers, and the skill of its sailors. It took a 
distinguished lead in modern discoveries, and was for a time 
the first commercial nation in Europe. 

2. The surface of the country is agreeably diversified with 
mountains, hills, and plains. The climate is mild, pleasant, 
and healthful ; and the soil is rich in the fruits and products 


Portugal. Q.— 1. What is said of Portugal? 2. The surface? 
Climate ? Chief staples ? 3. What is said of commerce ? Manufac- 







248 


DESCRIPTIVE GEOGRAPHY. 



peculiar to southern Europe. 
Wine, salt, oil, and wool, are 
the chief staples. 


3. The commerce of Por- 


Portuguese Peasants. 


— - — 

H| tugal, which, during the time 
|§ of its prosperity, was very ex- 
sP tensive, is now inferior to that 
^ of almost every other mari- 
time nation in Europe. The 
manufactures are small in 


amount; and an imperfect knowledge of the commonest arts 
is observable among the people. 

4. The agriculture is in a very backward state; and few of the im¬ 
provements common in other countries are known here. Much of the 
produce of the soil is carried to market on the heads of female peasants. 

5. Literature and science are greatly circumscribed. All the best 
foreign works are prohibited, and every thing published is subjected to 
a rigid censorship. The religion is the Roman Catholic; no other is 
tolerated, and the body of the people are greatly under the influence of 
the clergy. 

6. Education is in alow state; the monks, who are generally the 
teachers, being themselves imperfectly educated. The peasantry are 
held by the nobles in a state little short of bondage. They have been 
usually represented as indolent, cowardly, and revengeful; but, on 
many occasions, during the late war with France, they displayed quali¬ 
ties not unworthy their gallant ancestors. 

7. Lisbon, the capital, is a place of considerable commerce, and has 
one of the finest harbours in the world. It was destroyed by an earth¬ 
quake in 1755, and 30,000 of the inhabitants perished. It is an ill-built 
and dirty place, but contains some handsome public buildings and 
squares. 

8. Oporto, the second city in the kingdom, is famous for its port-wine, 
of which about 75,000 pipes are annually exported. St. Ubes is noted 
for its salt-works, at which about 100,000 tons of salt are made every 
year. Coimbra is celebrated for its university, which contains 40 
professors, and about 800 students. 


Map No. 11. — What bounds Portugal on the north and east? Sn. 
— West and south? A.-On. — Which are the principal rivers ? Ts., 
Do., Ga. — How long is each of these ? What cape forms the south¬ 
west point of Portugal ? S.-Vt. What is the population of Lisbon ? 
Oporto ? Coimbra ? St. Ubes ? Braga ? Elvas ? Evora ? 


tures ? 4. The agriculture ? 5. Of literature, &c. ? Religion ? 

6. Education? 7. Describe Lisbon. 8. Oporto, St. Ubes, &c. & 





GERMANY. 


249 


- 166- 

GERMANY. 


1. Germany is an extensive country, situated in the centre 
of Europe. It once contained upwards of 300 separate 
divisions; but now comprises the Empire of Austria, the 
kingdoms of Prussia, Bavaria, Saxony, Hanover, and Wirtem- 
burg, with 29 smaller states and four republics or free cities. 

2. These form the Union styled the Germanic Confedera¬ 
tion ; the object of which is to provide for mutual safety and 
defence. Each state is independent within its own territory, 
but for general purposes the whole is governed by the Diet of 
Germany, a body composed of plenipotentiaries and deputies 
from the different states. 

' 3. This region is traversed by numerous rivers and exten¬ 
sive ranges of mountains. Agriculture is carried on with 
great diligence, and mining is one of the chief sources of 
wealth. The inland trade is very considerable, but the manu¬ 
factures, though important and various, are not so flourishing 
as formerly. 



The Wolf. 


Brown European Bear. 


4. Germany is well supplied with cattle, horses, hogs, and sheep: of 
the latter, those of Saxony and other districts are particularly noted for 
the fineness of their wool. The bear, wolf, and wild boar, are less 
common than formerly, but are still found in remote districts among 
the forests and mountains. 


Germany. Q. — 1. What did it once contain ? What does it com¬ 
prise? 2. What do these form? What is said of each state? Of the 
Diet ? 3. By what is this region traversed ? What is said of agri¬ 
culture ? Mining ? Trade ? Manufactures ? 4. What is Germany 

well supplied with ? What is said of sheep ? The bear, &c. 5. De- 





250 


DESCRIPTIVE GEOGRAPHY 


5. The Germans are generally an honest, industrious and 
persevering race: to their ingenuity the world is indebted for 
the invention of printing, watches, and gunpowder; they are 
passionately fond of music, and their learned men are dis¬ 
tinguished for their attainments in literature and science. 

6. The public libraries of this country are 150 in number, 
with 5 million volumes, and there are not less than 10,000 
authors, producing every year from 4,000 to 5,000 books. 
The universities are highly celebrated, and much resorted to 
from other countries. Seminaries, styled gymnasia, are nu¬ 
merous, many of which rank as distinguished schools of 
learning. 

7. In the means of education, the north of Germany far surpasses 
the south. In Saxony, Prussia, Bavaria, and some of the smaller di¬ 
visions of the north, schools are numerous, and there is hardly any 
person to be found that cannot read ; while in other quarters of the 
country the lower classes are still very ignorant and averse to im¬ 
provement. 

8. In religion, Germany is divided between the Catholic and Protest¬ 
ant churches: the former includes the majority of the people, number¬ 
ing 20 millions, while the Protestants amount to about 16 millions: the 
latter comprise Lutherans and Calvinists principally : these have lately 
united in many places into one church, which takes the name of the 
Evangelical Church. There are also some Moravians, Mennonists, 
Jews, &c. 


-167- 

EMPIRE OF AUSTRIA. 

1. Austria is one of the most important states in Europe : 
it comprises about one-third of Germany, with Hungary, 
Galicia, Dalmatia, and the kingdom of Lombardy and Venice 
in Italy. 

2. The principal part of the inhabitants are Roman Catho¬ 
lics ; but all religions are tolerated. The national education is 


scribe the Germans. What did they invent ? What is said of music? 
Learned men ? 6. Of the public libraries, &c. ? Authors? Universi¬ 
ties? Seminaries, &c.? 7. What is said of education? 8. Of re¬ 

ligion? What do the Catholics number ? The Protestants? Of the 
Lutherans, Calvinists, &c. 

Austria. Q. — 1. What is Austria? What does it comprise? 
2. What is said of the inhabitants ? 3. Of the sea-coast and com- 





EMPIRE OF AUSTRIA. 251 

extremely deficient, and there arc many restraints upon the 
liberty of the press and freedom of speech. 

3. Austria has but a small extent of sea-coast, and a limit¬ 
ed commerce. It has no foreign colonies; but the Duchies of 
Tuscany, Parma, and Modena, in Italy, are dependent states. 
Gold, copper, iron, mercury, and salt, abound; the salt-mines 
of Wieliezca in Galicia, have been worked for 600 years, 
but still appear inexhaustible. Grain and wine are the chief 
products of the soil. 

4. The Emperor of Austria is absolute in all parts of his dominions, 
except in Hungary and some other districts. In the former he is styled 
king only, and his authority is limited by a diet or assembly of the 
nobles and clergy. The inhabitants belong to several distinct nations, 
comprising Germans, Poles, Italians, Hungarians, Jews, Gypsies, &c. 

5. The Austrian army is large, amounting to upwards of 270,000 
men, and though respectable for its discipline has not generally ranked 
high for efficiency. The Empire possesses no advantages for a navy; 
yet a small force has been organized on the Gulf of Venice, and an 
armed flotilla is maintained on the Danube. 



Square of Imperial Palace, Vienna. 


6. Vienna, the capital of the Austrian Empire, is one of the finest 
cities in Europe. It contains a number of palaces, churches, and other 
public buildings, some of which are splendid structures. The citizens 
are described as a good-natured, hospitable people, much devoted to 
pleasure and luxurious living. 

7. Prague, Gratz, Presburg, and Lemburg, are all places of some 
note. Buda and Pest, situated on opposite sides of the Danube, are 
joined together by a bridge of boats. These towns united, form the 

merce ? Of gold, &c. ? 4. Of the Emperor ? Describe the inhab¬ 
itants. 5. What is said of the army ? Navy ? 6. Describe Vienna. 

7. Prague, <fcc. Trieste. 








DESCRIPTIVE GEOGRAPHY. 


252 

most important city in Hungary. Debretzin is also an important 
town. Trieste is the chief sea-port of Austria, and a considerable trade 
is carried on between this place, the United States, and other countries. 

Map No. 11. — What bounds Austria on the north? Ra., Sy., Pa., 
Td. —South? Ty.—East? Ra. —West? G.-Ve.,Iy.,Ba.—What are 
the chief divisions of Austria ? Hy., Tl., Da., Ga. — Chief rivers ? De., 
Ts., De., Se. — How long are the three first ? Principal mountains ? 
As., Cn. — What is the population of Vienna ? Prague ? Pest ? Buda? 
Trieste ? Debretzin ? Presburg ? Brunn ? 

- 168 - 


Berlin. 

PRUSSIA. 

1. Prussia was erected into a kingdom in the year 1701, 
and from a small and weak state has become one of the most 
important and powerful nations of Europe. 

2. It ist in general a level country, with numerous rivers, 
lakes, and marshes. In some parts the soil is fertile, while 
in others there are large tracts unfit for cultivation. Grain 
and cattle are the chief productions. 

3. Prussia has but little foreign commerce, but the inland 
trade is considerable. The manufactures are principally 
linens, woollens, and articles of iron and steel. 

The chief part of the people are of the Protestant faith, 
and belong to the Evangelical or Lutheran Calvinistic Church ; 
but all other sects are tolerated, and are on an equal footing. 

4. The government is an absolute military monarchy. The army is 

Prussia. Q. — 1. What is said of Prussia? 2. What is it? Its 
productions ? 3. Commerce ? Manufactures ? What are the chief 

part of the people ? 4. What is said of the government ? Army ? 













BAVARIA 


253 


famous for its discipline, and almost every man must serve in it for 
three years as a soldier. Education is more general, and schools more 
numerous here than in any country in Europe. 

5. This kingdom comprises two entire detached sections; the west¬ 
ern part is situated on the river Rhine, and is the smallest division of 
the kingdom; it fell into the possession of Prussia in 1815. The east¬ 
ern part contains various provinces, some of which once belonged to 
Poland. 

6. Berlin, the capital of Prussia, is a handsome city, and is remark¬ 
able for its splendid edifices, its numerous literary institutions, and par¬ 
ticularly for its university. Manufactures of printed cotton, woollen, 
linen, silk, and porcelain, are carried on to some extent. 

7. Dantzick and Konigsburg are the chief sea-ports. Magdeburg and 
Stettin are strongly fortified towns. Cologne and Coblentz, on the 
Rhine, are noted, the first for its Cologne water, and the other for its 
wines. 


BAVARIA. 

8. This kingdom is, next to Austria and Prussia, the most 
important state in Germany. A considerable part of the 
country is covered with forests. The soil is not very fertile, 
and agriculture is in an unimproved state; vet cattle, and 
hogs, are reared in considerable numbers. 

9. Wine, brandy, and beer, are made to some extent; the latter is the 
common drink of the lower orders of the people. Education has been 
of late years very generally diffused, and the institutions of learning 
are in a flourishing condition. 

10. Munich, the capital, is one of the handsomest cities in Germany, 
and is noted for its university, theatre, library, and splendid galleries 
of sculpture and paintings. Nuremburg, Augsburg, and Ratisbon, are 
important places: watches and globes were invented in the first named 
city, and it has been long famous for its trade in children’s toys. 


Map No. 11. — How is Prussia bounded? What are the chief 
rivers ? Re., Va., Or., Ee., Wa. — How long are each of these ? What 
is the population of Berlin? Breslaw ? Cologne? Konigsburg ? 
Dantzick ? Magdeburg ? Potsdam. 

How is Bavaria bounded? What is the chief river? De. — Into 
what sea does it flow ? How long is it ? What is the population of 
Munich ? Nuremburg ? 


Education ? 5. What does this kingdom comprise ? 6. Describe 

Berlin. 7. Dantzick, and the other towns. 8. What is said of Ba¬ 
varia? Soil, &c. ? 9. Wine, &c. ? Education? 10. Describe Mu¬ 

nich. 




254 


DESCRIPTIVE GEOGRAPHY 


- 169- 

HANOVER. 

1. Hanover, formerly an electorate, became a kingdom 
in 1815; and was under the control of a governor-general, 
appointed by the king of England. On the accession of queen 
Victoria to the British throne, her uncle, Ernest Augustus, 
became king of Hanover. 

2. Agriculture and manufactures are not very flourishing ; but the 
mines are important, and extensively wrought. Gold, silver, iron, lead, 
and copper, all abound. 

3. Hanover is the capital of the kingdom, and derives its chief im¬ 
portance from that circumstance. Gottingen is celebrated for its 
university, which is liberally supported by the Hanoverian government, 
and contains 900 students. Its library, observatory, and botanic gar¬ 
dens, are among the most valuable in Europe. 

SAXONY. 

4. This kingdom is one of the most populous and indus¬ 
trious of the German states. Commerce, manufactures, and 
mining, are carried on with great industry. Vast flocks of 
sheep are raised, the wool of which is largely exported, and 
is highly esteemed for its fineness. 

5. Dresden, the capital of this kingdom, is one of the finest cities in 
the north of Germany. Its public buildings, libraries, and galleries of 
paintings, are remarkable. Leipzic is famous for its university ; and 
for its great fairs, held twice a year, at which vast quantities of books 
and other articles are sold. 


WIRTEMBERG. 

6. This state was erected into a kingdom in 1806. It is 
one of the most fertile and best-cultivated parts of Germany, 
and produces grain, wine, and fruits of various kinds. 

7. Cherries are extensively raised, from which is made the strong 
liquor called kirchwasser. ' Geese and snails are reared and fattened in 
surprising numbers, and sent to Vienna and Italy. Stuttgard, the cap- 
ital, is a well-built city. The royal library contains 200,000 volumes, 
and is remarkable for its collection of bibles, which comprises 8,250 
copies, in 68 different languages. 


Hanover. Q. — 1. What is said of Hanover ? 2. Of the agriculture, 

manufactures, &c. ? 3. Describe the capital. Gottingen. 4. Describe 
Saxony. 5. Dresden. Leipzic. 6. YVhat is said of Wirtomberg ? 





THE SMALLER GERMAN STATES 


255 


8. The smaller states of Germany amount to 33 in num¬ 
ber; they comprise 7 grand duchies, 9 duchies, 1 electorate, 
1 landgraviate, 10 principalities, 1 lordship, and 4 free cities. 
The population varies in amount in the different states from 
720,000 to 2,860 persons, forming an aggregate of nearly 
6 , 000 , 000 . 

9. Some of these states contain important cities and towns, among 
which are Carlsruhe, the capital, and Manheim, the largest place in 
Baden ; also, Darmstadt in Hessc-Darmstadt, and Mentz, or Mayence, 
on the Rhine, in the same state. The latter is celebrated as the place 
where printing was invented; and the house where Faust and Guttem- 
burg made their first essays in that art is still shown. 



Mentz. 


10. Free Cities. —The free cities of Germany are Ham¬ 
burg, Lubec, and Frankfort. These are all that remain of 
the famous Hanseatic League, that once comprised 85 of the 
most commercial European cities, and ruled, by their wealth 
and arms, a great part of Northern Europe. 

11. Hamburg is the most commercial city in Germany. It is the 
scat of extensive manufactures; and the ships of almost all nations 
visit its port. Lubec and Bremen are important commercial towns. 
Frankfort is the seat of the Germanic Diet, or Congress, of the German 
princes. It is celebrated for its semi-annual fairs, which attract mer¬ 
chants from all parts of Europe. 


Map No. 11.— How is Hanover bounded ? What rivers flow through 
it ? Ee., Ws., Es. — How long are they ? What is the population of 
Hanover ? Gottingen ? 

How is Saxony bounded ? What river flows through it ? Ec. — 
How long is it ? What is the population of Dresden ? Leipzic ? 

7. What is extensively raised ? 8. The smaller states of Germany ? 

9. What do they contain ? Describe Mentz. 10. Of the free cities ? 
11. Hamburg, &c.? Frankfort? 
















DESCRIPTIVE GEOGRAPHY. 


256 

How is Wirtemberg bounded ? What river flows through it ? De. 
— How long is it ? What is the population of Stuttgard ? Ulm ? 

What is the population of Hamburg ? What river is it on ? Ee. — 
What is the population of Bremen ? What river is it on? Wr. — On 
what river is Frankfort ? Ans. the Mayne. What is the population 
of Frankfort ? Of Lubec ? 


170 



Bertie. 


SWITZERLAND. 

1. Switzerland is the most mountainous country in 
Europe. It is remarkable for the grandeur of its natural 
features and scenery ; and for the freedom of its political in¬ 
stitutions. 

2. It is known by the name of the “Helvetic Republic;” 
and is composed of 22 cantons, each of which is an inde¬ 
pendent state; but for national security they are united 
together, and governed by a general diet. 

3. Switzerland is traversed by the Alps, the highest moun¬ 
tains in Europe. Extensive fields of ice, called glaciers, 
cover the summits of these elevated peaks ; and avalanches, 
composed of vast bodies of snow, sometimes rush from their 
lofly sides down upon the valleys, burying travellers, buildings, 
and even whole villages, in one common ruin. 

4. The nature of the country presents various obstacles to its culti¬ 
vation, but they have been, in a great measure, overcome by the indus¬ 
try of the inhabitants; and spots apparently doomed to eternal sterility 
are crowned with vegetation. The products are grain, win*, and 
various kinds of fruit; but pasturage is the chief object of the farmer. 

5. The Swiss are an honest, brave, and hospitable people, ardently 


Switzerland. Q. — 1. Describe Switzerland. 2. By what name is it 
known ? 3. Of the Alps, &c. ? Avalanches ? 4. What is said of 





SWITZERLAND. 


257 


attached to liberty, and to their native country. Education is general 
amongst them; and great crimes are rare. The Protestants and 
Catholics in Switzerland are about equal in numbers. The languages 
spoken in this country are the German, French, and Italian. 

6. Berne is usually considered the capital of Switzerland; but 
Zurich and Lucerne share with it that honour, each being alternately 
the seat of government for two years at a time. Geneva is beautifully 
situated on the lake of the same name. It is a handsome city, and is 
distinguished for its literary institutions* and for its extensive manufac¬ 
tures of watches, of which 70,000 are made here annually. 

7. Among the quadrupeds found in Switzerland are the Alpino 
spaniel and the ibex. The former is one of the largest animals of its 
kind. Several of them are kept by the monks of Mount St. Bernard 
for the purpose of discovering travellers lost in crossing the mountains 



Alpine Spaniel. Ibex. 


in time of snow. The ibex is a species of wild goat, and dwells among 
the highest precipices of the Alps, whither they are often followed by 
those who hunt them. 


Map No. 11. — What bounds Switzerland on the north? Fe., Bn., 
Wg. — South ? Iy. — East ? Ba., Tl. — West ? Fe. — What moun¬ 
tains are in Switzerland ? As.— How long are they? What lake in 
the south? Ga. — In the north? Lake Constance.— What river 
flows from lake Constance ? Re. — From lake Geneva ? Re. — How 
long are these rivers ? What is the population of Geneva ? Berne ? 
Basle ? Zurich ? 


cultivation? Products? 5. Describe the Swiss. What is said of 
education ? Languages ? 6. Describe Berne, &c. Geneva. 7. What 
quadrupeds are found in Switzerland ? 

17 





258 


DESCRIPTIVE GEOGRAPHY. 



ITALY. 

1. Italy forms a great peninsula, bounded on the east by 
the Gulf of Venice, and on the west by the Mediterranean 
sea. It was the country of the ancient Romans, and is filled 
with the remains of their splendid cities and buildings. 

2. Though in a state of decline, Italy is one of the most 
interesting countries in the world, and almost every spot in it 
has been the scene of some remarkable event. The country 
is noted for the mildness and serenity of its climate, and for 
the beauty, diversity, and romantic character of its scenery. 

3. The soil is generally fertile, and is in some parts well 
cultivated. The chief products are wheat, corn, rice, oil, 
wine, and silk. The principal fruits are oranges, figs, dates, 
and almonds. 

4. In Italy are to be found the finest specimens of archi¬ 
tecture in Europe. The churches are costly and magnificent, 
and the dwellings of some of the nobles rival the palaces of 
kings and emperors. 

5. The Italians are highly distinguished for their skill in sculpture, 


Italy. Q. — 1. What does Italy form ? 2. What is it ? For what 

is it noted ? 3. What is said of the soil ? Products ? 4. What arc 














SARDINIA. 


259 


painting, architecture, and music; but are not much noted at present 
for literature or science. They are naturally a lively people, with 
active passions and ardent imaginations, and generally have expressive 
countenances and animated sparkling eyes. 

6. The prevailing religion is the Roman Catholic: its priests arc 
very numerous, and much attention is paid to religious ceremonies and 
processions. Education is not general among the great body of the 
people, and the lower classes arc in consequence very ignorant. 



7. The higher ranks wear the usual European dress; but among the 
lower orders, there are various local peculiarities of costume. The 
food of the Italians is generally light; fruits and vegetables are more 
common articles of diet than flesh, and, as in the other parts of the 
south of Europe, oil and wine arc much used by all classes of the 
people. 

8. Italy comprises the kingdoms of Sardinia and Naples, the king¬ 
dom of Lombardy and Venice, the Popedom, the Grand Duchy of 
Tuscany, the Duchies of Parma, Modena, and Lucca, the Republic of 
San Marino, and the Principality of Monaco. 

SARDINIA. 

9. The kingdom of Sardinia embraces the north-west sec¬ 
tion of Italy,,together with the large island of Sardinia. The 
continental part of this kingdom is fertile and well cultivated. 


to be found ? 5. Describe the Italians. 6. What is said of religion ? 

Education ? 7. Of the higher ranks ? Food, &c. ? 8. What does 

Italy comprise ? 9. Describe Sardinia. 10. Turin. Genoa. 11. Mo¬ 
naco. 





















260 


DESCRIPTIVE GEOGRAPHY 



Genoa. 


There are some important manufactures of silk, and the com¬ 
merce of Genoa is considerable. 

10. Turin, the capital of the kingdom, is the most regularly built of 
all the Italian cities, with broad, straight, and clean streets. Genoa, 
surnamed the Superb, was long the capital of a powerful republic, and 
is noted for being the birth-place of Columbus. It is now the chief sea¬ 
port of Sardinia. Alessandria and Nice are cities of some impor¬ 
tance ; Cagliari is the chief town of the island of Sardinia. 

11. Monaco.— The principality of Monaco is a small independent 
state, under the protection of Sardinia: it contains a population of 
6,500. Its capital, Monaco, is a village with 1,000 inhabitants. 


Map No. 11. — What bounds Italy on the north ? As. — South and 
West? M.-Sa., Fe. — East? G.-Ve. — Which is the principal river ? 
Po. — How long is it ? What gulf south of Sardinia ? Ga. — What 
strait between Corsica and Sardinia? Bo. — How long and wide is 
Sardinia? What is the population of Turin? Genoa? Cagliari? 
Sassari ? 


- 172- 

LOMBARDY AND VENICE. 

1. The kingdom of Lombardy and Venice, called the 
Lombardo-Venetian kingdom, is situated between the river 
Po and the Alps. It belongs to Austria, and is one of the 
most fertile and best-cultivated territories in Italy. Agricul¬ 
ture, trade, and manufactures, are in a thriving state ; and 
science and the arts are much encouraged. 


Lombardy and Venice. Q. — 1. How is this kingdom situated ? Of 



















TUSCANY, THE POPEDOM. ‘2G1 

2. Milan, the seat 
of government, is a 
handsome city. Its 
public buildings are 
numerous and splen¬ 
did. The cathedral is 
the finest specimen of 
Gothic architecture in 
existence; and the sta¬ 
tues with which it is 
adorned are said to 
amount to 4000. 

3. Venice, the cap¬ 

ital of the ancient re¬ 
public of that name, 
was long the chief mar- Milan Cathedral, 

itime city in the south 

of Europe. It is one of the most remarkable places in the world, being 
built upon a number of small islands, which are joined together by 500 
bridges. Verona, Padua, and Mantua, are important cities. 

4. Parma, Modena, and Lucca. —These are small territories, called 
duchies, situated south of Lombardy and Venice. Parma is governed 
by Maria Louisa, the wife of the late emperor of France, Napoleon 
Bonaparte. Modena is under the government of a duke of the house 
of Austria. Lucca is governed by its own duke. It is one of the best 
cultivated districts in Italy. 



TUSCANY. 

5. The grand duchy of Tuscany is the most prosperous 
state in Italy. Manufactures of silk, soap, and Leghorn bon¬ 
nets, are carried on to a considerable extent. The latter 
employs a number of women and children. 

6. Florence, the capital, surnamed the Beautiful, is one of the hand¬ 
somest cities in Europe. Its palaces, churches, galleries, and libraries, 
are all celebrated. Leghorn is the sea-port of Tuscany, and has an 
extensive commerce. Pisa, not far from Florence, is noted for the 
Campanile, or leaning tower, which is 190 feet high, and inclines up¬ 
wards of 15 feet from the perpendicular. It is now 600 years old. 

THE POPEDOM. 

7. The territory forming the Popedom, called also the 
States of the Church, occupies the centre of Italy. It is ruled 


Agriculture, &c. 2. Describe Milan. 3. Venice. 4. What is said of 
Parma ? Modena and Lucca ? 5. Describe Tuscany. 6. Florence, 


















2G2 


DESCRIPTIVE GEOGRAPHY 



Rome. 


by the Pope, who is the head of the Catholic church. This 
division of Italy is less prosperous than the neighbouring states. 

8. Rome, the capital of these states, was, in ancient times, the 
largest city in the world. It was 60 miles in circumference ; and had 
a population of two million inhabitants. Though now much decayed 
and a great part of it in ruins, it is still the most interesting city in 
Europe. 

9. It contains a vast number of churches, superb palaces, and mag¬ 
nificent remains of antiquity. St. Peter’s, the largest of its churches, 
and the largest in the world, was 111 years in building, and cost a sum 
equal to 160 millions of dollars at the present day. Bologna, Ferrara, 
and Ancona, are, after the capital, the most noted towns. 

10. San Marino. —This little republic is under the protection of the 
Pope. It occupies a tract of 40 square miles, with 7000 inhabitants; 
and has retained its independence 1300 years. The punishment of 
dedth has never been inflicted within this territory. 


Map No. 11. — What bounds Lombardy and Venice on the north? 
As. — South ? R.-Po. — East ? Aa. —West ? Sa. — What gulf on 
the south-east ? Ve. — What is the population of Milan ? Venice ? 
Padua? Verona? Mantua? 

How is the popedom bounded ? What is the population of Rome ? 
Bologna ? Ancona ? 

How is Tuscany bounded ? What small island west of Tuscany ? 
Ea. This is noted for the residence of Napoleon Bonaparte, in 1814 
and 1815. — What is the population of Florence ? Leghorn ? 


Leghorn, &c. 7. What is said of the popedom ? 8. Describe Rome. 

9. What is said of its churches, &c. ? 10. Describe the republic of 

San Marino. 






NAPLES. 


263 




- 173 - 

NAPLES. 

1. The kingdom of Naples, or of the Two Sicilies, is the 
most considerable in Italy for extent and population. It occu¬ 
pies the southern half of Italy, together with the island of 
Sicily, and the Lipari Isles. 


Naples. 

2. Both parts of this kingdom have a warm climate, and 
a luxuriant soil. The fig-tree, almond, cotton-plant, and 
sugar-cane, all flourish with great exuberance ; yet the cities 
and towns are filled with beggars, and persons destitute of 

- employment. 

3. The supineness of the government, with the indolence 
of the people, prevent agriculture, manufactures, or commerce, 
from being diligently pursued. The latter is chiefly carried 
on by foreigners; for no Neapolitan vessel ever ventures 
farther than the Straits of Gibraltar. 


Porcupine. Quail. 


Naples. Q. — 1. What does Naples occupy? 2. Of the climate, 
soil, &c. ? 3. Government? Commerce, &c. ? 4. Wild animals? 







264 


DESCRIPTIVE GEOGRAPHY. 


4. The principal wild animals found in Italy are the wolf and wild 
boar. These, though rare, are still occasionally seen in the mountains 
and forests of this kingdom; and the porcupine is met with in the 
southern districts. Birds in great variety inhabit all sections of the 
peninsula; and immense flocks of quails pass from Sicily to the more 
northern regions of Europe, during the spring of every year. 

5. Sicily is the largest and most fertile island in the Mediterranean 
sea. It is noted for containing Mount Etna, the most active vol¬ 
cano in Europe. Smoke is continually issuing from it, and it has 
thrown out flames, at intervals, for more than 2000 years. 

6. Naples, the capital of this kingdom, is the most populous city in 
Italy. It is situated on a bay of the same name, near the base of 
Mount Vesuvius, and surpasses every city in Europe for the beauty of 
its situation and appearance. Naples is remarkable for the number of 
its nobles and lazzaroni, or vagabonds. 

7. Taranto, Bari, Cava, Foggio, and Salerno, are all considerable 
towns. Palermo is the chief city of Sicily. It has a university, and 
considerable commerce. Catania, Messina, Trapani, and Syracuse, are 
among the chief towns. 

8. The Ionian Republic. —This republic comprises the islands of 
Corfu, Cephalonia, Zante, St. Maura, Paxu, Ithaca, and Cerigo. It is 
under the protection of Great Britain, whose sovereign appoints the 
lord high commissioner, or head of the government. 

9. The inhabitants are chiefly Greeks and Italians. They are an 
industrious, enterprising people, and carry on a considerable commerce 
in wine, olive-oil, and currants. The population of the islands amounts 
to 192,000. The largest town is Zante, with 18,000 inhabitants; but 
Corfu, on the island of the same name, is the capital. Population 
16,000. 

10. Malta. —Malta is a small but celebrated island in the Mediter¬ 
ranean sea, lying south of Sicily, containing 80,000 inhabitants; and 
is noted for the strength of its fortifications. It formerly belonged to 
the knights of St. John, a rich and powerful military order; but is now 
in the possession of Great Britain. La Valetta, the capital and port, 
has a population of 32,000. 


Map No. 11. — How is Naples bounded? What strait separates it 
from Turkey ? Oo. — What gulf is there in the south ? To. — What 
mountains extend through it ? As. — What mountain near Naples ? 

Vs.— In Sicily? Ea. — What islands lie north of Sicily? Li._ 

What cape in Sicily? Po. — What is the population of the city of 
Naples? Palermo? Messina? Catania? Taranto? Bari? Syra- 


5. What is said of Sicily ? Mount Etna? Strom boli? 6. Describe 
Naples. 7. Taranto, &c. Palermo, and the other towns. 8. What 
does the Ionian republic comprise, &c. ? 9. Describe the inhabitants. 
Commerce, &c. Population. 10. What is said of Malta ? 




GREECE. 


265 


cuse ? How long and wide is Sicily ? What island lies south of 
Sicily ? Ma. — On what coast do the Ionian isles lie ? Ty. Ge. — 
Which is the largest island? Cu. — Which is the most northern? 
Cu. — The most southern ? Co. 


174 



GREECE. 

1. Greece is one of the most celebrated countries in the 
world. Two thousand years ago, it excelled all others in 
civilization, learning, and the arts. It was for nearly four 
centuries subject to Turkish bondage; but has lately, after a 
bloody and protracted warfare, become independent. 

2. Modern Greece comprises a portion of the southern 
part of the ancient country of the same name, together with 
a number of islands in the Archipelago, of which Negropont 
is the chief. 

3. The interior of the country is finely diversified with 
rugged mountains, and beautiful and fertile valleys. The 
climate is mild and pleasant; and the soil, though badly 
cultivated, produces to some extent, cotton, oil, wine, silk, &c., 
with fruits of various kinds. 


Greece. Q. — 1. What is said of Greece ? How long was it subject 
to oppression ? 2. Describe Modern Greece. 3. The interior. What 















260 


DESCRIPTIVE GEOGRAPHY. 


4. The Greeks are an active, vigorous race of people, and are gen- 
erally distinguished for personal beauty. In their late contest with the 
Turks, they displayed a courage and bravery not unworthy their heroic 
ancestors. The employment of fire-ships was with them a favourite 
mode of warfare, by which they destroyed some of the largest vessels 
of their enemies. 

5. The great body of the people of Greece are destitute of education 
and knowledge ; but they are anxious for improvement, and are eager 
to rise from the degradation consequent upon their long political servi¬ 
tude. Considerable exertions are making to introduce schools and 
colleges amongst them, and to disseminate learning, good morals, and 
religion. 

6. The government chosen for this country by the great European 
powers, is a limited monarchy : the selected sovereign is Otho, son of 
Louis Charles of Bavaria. He bears the title of king of Greece. The 
administration of the national affairs has not as yet realized the ex¬ 
pectations of the friends of Grecian liberty. 

7. Athens, the capital of Modern Greece, was one of the most cele¬ 
brated cities of antiquity, and the birth-place of the most renowned 
orators, philosophers, and artists of ancient times. It is now reduced 
to a town of moderate dimensions, whose meanly-built houses contrast 
strangely with the remaining relics of its ancient splendour. 

8. Tripolizza, Napoli, and Navarino, are among the chief towns of 
Greece. The last is celebrated for the destruction of the Turkish 
naval power by the combined fleets of England, France, and Russia, 
on the 20th October, 1828;—an event which secured the independence 
of Greece. 

9. Hydra and Spezzia, two small islands on the coast of the Morea, 
were famous for their commerce before the Revolution; and their mer¬ 
chant-ships formed, during the war, nearly the whole of the Greek 
naval force. 


Map No. 11. — What bounds Greece on the north? Ty. — South 
and west ? M. Sa. — East? Ao. — What peninsula forms the south¬ 
ern part of Greece? Ma.'—It is united to the northern part of the 
kingdom by the Isthmus of Corinth. What is the southern cape of 
Greece? M». — What island south of the Morea? Co. — What 
islands west of Greece ? Ca., Ze. — What islands east? Nt., Mo., 
No. — What island south of Milo ? Ca. — How long is it ? To what 
power does it belong ? Et. — What is the population of Athens ? 


does it produce ? 4. Describe the Greeks. What did they display ? 

Employ in war? 5. What is said of the great body of the people? 
6. The government? 7. Describe Athens. 8. Tripolizza. For what 
is Navarino celebrated ? 9. For what were Hydra and Spezzia famous ? 




TURKEY, 


267 


- 175- 

TURKEY. 

1 Turkey, or the Ottoman empire, comprises two great 
divisions, Turkey in Europe and Turkey in Asia. It was 
once a powerful and influential state; but has within the last 
hundred years greatly declined in strength and importance. 

2. Its territory has been of late much diminished. Greece 
has become independent; while Egypt, Syria, the fine islands 
of Cyprus and Candia, with the whole of the western part of 
Arabia, have fallen into the hands of Mahomet Ali, the 
Pacha of Egypt. 

3. The government is thoroughly despotic. The Sultan, 
or Grand Signior, is considered as reigning by divine com¬ 
mission ; and as uniting in himself all the powers of the 
state. He is sometimes profanely called the shadow of God, 
brother to the sun and moon, and refuge of the world. 

4. The court is called the Ottoman Porte, or Sublime 
Porte, and the Divan is the great council of the nation. It 



Grand Signior. Grand Vizier. Mufti. 


is composed of the Grand Vizier, the Mufti, the Capidan 
Pacha, the Reis Effendi, and the other principal officers of 
state. 


Turkey. Q .— 1. What does Turkey comprise ? What was it once? 
2. What is said of its territory ? 3. The government ? 4. What is 





268 


DESCRIPTIVE GEOGRAPHY 


5. The Turks are grave and sedate in their manners, but ignorant 
and bigoted: and so indolent, that nothing short of the strongest ex¬ 
citement will rouse them to activity. They are temperate in both 
eating and drinking. Pork and wine are prohibited by the Koran. 
Coffee is the principal beverage ; though ardent spirits and opium are 
used to some extent. 

6. In religion they are strict Mahomedans. They call those who do 
not believe their creed infidels, and formerly esteemed it lawful to re¬ 
duce to subjection all who refused to be converted to their faith. 
Smoking the pipe, lounging for hours cross-legged upon a cushion or 
sofa, and bathing, are the principal occupations of the better class. 

7. Important changes have lately taken place in the character and 
policy of the Turkish government. The present Sultan has organized 
his army and navy after those of the other European nations; and is 
endeavouring to introduce their arts and sciences into his empire. 

8. The Turks, or, as they call themselves,' Osmanlis, are the ruling 
race in this empire; but they constitute less than one-half of the popu¬ 
lation. The rest of the inhabitants consist of Greeks, Albanians, 
Armenians, Turcomans, Arabs, Kurds, Jews, and Gypsies. There is 
no hereditary nobility in Turkey ; the only difference of rank being 
that of office. 

-176- 



Constantinople. 


TURKEY IN EUROPE. 

1. Turkey in Europe is the smallest of the two great 
divisions of the Ottoman Empire. Its surface is mountain- 

the court called ? 5. Describe the Turks. Of eating, &c. ? .6. Of 

religion? Principal occupations ? 7. Important changes ? Army and 
navy ? 8. Of the Turks, and the other inhabitants? Of nobility, &c. ? 

Turkey in Europe. Q. — 1. What is Turkey in Europe ? 2. What 





TURKEY IN EUROPE 


269 


ous, and, throughout most of its extent, interspersed with 
beautiful and fertile valleys. 

2. In soil and climate, this country is highly favoured ; and 
under a liberal government it would doubtless become one 
of the most flourishing countries of Europe. The products 
are corn, wheat, rice, cotton, silk, wine, oil, fruits, &c. 

3. The operations of agriculture and manufactures are but 
negligently conducted. The commerce is chiefly carried on 
by foreigners, and is mostly confined to the port of Con¬ 
stantinople. The inland trade is considerable, and is in the 
hands of Greeks, Jews, Armenians, &c. 

4. The horses and cattle of this region are generally large and fine: 
the former are from the Arabian stock. The Wallachian sheep are 



Wallachian Sheep. 


remarkable for the singularity of their horns and wool: the latter is 
long and straight, but rather coarse. The birds, particularly the water- 
fowl, are numerous, and of various kinds, among which the pelican 
and flamingo are conspicuous. 

5. The provinces of Wallachia, Moldavia, and Servia, usually inclu¬ 
ded in European Turkey, are governed by their own princes, and are 
in all respects independent, except that they pay a fixed tribute to the 
Porte. The people of these provinces are much oppressed by their 
rulers. They belong mostly to the Greek church. 

6. Constantinople is the capital of the Ottoman Empire, and the 
third city in Europe in population. Its situation is beautiful, and its 
harbour extensive and commodious. It presents a handsome appear¬ 
ance at a distance, but is found on examination to consist of narrow, 
crooked streets, with low, gloomy-looking houses, built of wood. 


is said of its surface ? Soil and climate ? Products ? 3. Of agricul¬ 
ture, &c. ? Commerce ? 4. Horses and cattle ? Wallachian sheep, 

&c. ? 5. What is said of Wallachia, &c. ? 6. Describe Constant!- 




270 


DESCRIPTIVE GEOGRAPHY. 


7. Fires occur so often* that it is said Constantinople is entirely 
rebuilt every fifteen years. The Mosques, or Mahomedan places of 
worship, are numerous, and some of them are superb structures. The 
mosque of St. Sophia, once a Christian church, is accounted the finest 
in the world. The Mosques of Sultan Achmet and of Suleyman are 
large and splendid, but are not marked by the same classic taste. 

8. Adrianople is the second city in European Turkey. It was long 
the residence of the Sultans. Bucharest, the capital of Wallachia, is 
a large dirty city, built in a swamp: the streets, instead of being paved 
in the usual way, are covered with planks. Belgrade, Widin, Silistria, 
and Shumla, are all strongly-fortified towns. Serajevo, Salonica, 
Sophia, and Joannina, are all places of some note. 

Map No. 11. — What bounds Turkey on the north ? Aa. — South ? 
Ge., Ao., S.-Ma. — East ? B.-Sa. — West? G.-Ve. — Which is the 
chief river ? De. — How long is it ? Into what sea does it flow ? 
Bk. — Point out the principal mountains. Bn. — How long are they ? 
What strait between the Archipelago and the sea of Marmora ? Ds. — 
What channel leads into the Black sea? Ce. — What is the popula¬ 
tion of Constantinople ? Adrianople ? Bucharest ? Serajevo ? Sa¬ 
lonica ? Sophia ? Joannina ? Ibraila ? Shumla ? Seres ? La¬ 
rissa ? 

- 177 - 

ASIA. 

1. Asia is the largest and most populous of the great 
divisions of the globe. It has been the seat of some of the 
most powerful empires of ancient times, and the theatre of 
many of the most interesting events recorded in history. 

2. It was here our first parents were created, and from 
this quarter the descendants of Noah peopled the world after 
the flood. It was also the birth-place of our Saviour, the 
scene of his miracles and death, and the field on which the 
apostles first published salvation to man. 

3. The vast expanse of Asia stretching through almost 
80 degrees of latitude, presents every variety of soil and cli¬ 
mate. Its large rivers are inferior only to the great streams 
of the Western Continent, and its mountain chains are 
among the most extensive in the world, and attain to a greater 
height than those of any other region. 

nople. 7. What is said of fires ? 8. Describe Adrianople. Bucha¬ 

rest, &c. 

Asia. Q. 1. What is Asia? Of what has it been the seat? 
2. What is said of our first parents ? Our Saviour ? 3. Of the soil 






ASIA 


271 



Asia. 


4. Asia is distinguished for the great variety of its rich 
productions. It supplies the other parts of the world with 
tea, with some of the finest spices and perfumes, and also 
with silk, diamonds, and precious stones of various kinds. 

5. The institutions, manners and customs of the people 

are the same at the present, as in the earliest times ; and no 
advance appears to have been made for a long period in arts, 
sciences, or learning. , 

6. In disposition and temper, the people are grave, serious, and 
recluse. The women are generally kept in ignorance, and are not 
taught reading or writing; they are also, in many parts of Asia, 
regarded almost as slaves, live in strict retirement, and do not go abroad 
without being closely veiled. 

7. The governments of Asia are generally despotic, and their ad¬ 
ministration is frequently arbitrary and tyrannical. Robbery is often 
practised as a regular trade, even by chiefs and princes, and as a call¬ 
ing that they consider honourable and honest. 

8. Agriculture is pursued in many parts of Asia, with great indus¬ 
try and care, but not with the same skill as in Europe. Many of the 
manufactures, though conducted with the most simple tools and 
machinery, are not surpassed in richness and beauty by those of any 
other part of the world. 

and climate ? Rivers ? Mountains ? 4. For what is Asia distinguish¬ 
ed ? 5. Of the institutions, manners, See. ? 6. Disposition, See. ? Of 

the women ? 7. What is said of the governments ? Robbery ? 8. 

Agriculture ? Manufactures ? 9. Commerce ? Foreign Trade ? 
















DESCRIPTIVE GEOGRAPHY 


272 

9. A lucrative commerce has been carried on in this quarter, from 
the earliest times. The internal trade by caravans, though not so im¬ 
portant as that by sea, is yet very considerable. The foreign trade, 
particularly that with Ghina and India, is chiefly in the hands of the 
English and Americans, and is extensive and valuable. 

10. Some of the most remarkable animals of Asia, are the Elephant, 
one-horned Rhinoceros, Tiger, Leopard, and Musk Deer. The Horse, 
Camel, Ass, Sheep, and Goat, are supposed to have had their origin in 
this quarter, and with the Peacock, common Fowl, and Pheasant, have 
been spread from hence over other parts of the world. Gigantic Cranes, 
as tall as a man, and the Cassowary, similar to the Ostrich, with an 
infinite number of birds of brilliant and varied plumage, abound. 



Tiger. 

11. Crocodiles, different however from those of Africa, are found in 
all the large rivers of the south; and Serpents exist in great variety, 
from the gigantic Python and Anaconda, measuring from 12 to 20 feet 
in length, to a species of only an inch and a half long, whose venom 
causes the person bitten by it to fall into a deadly sleep. 

12. Asia comprises a greater variety of different races of men, than 
any other quarter of the world. The chief part of the inhabitants are 
Pagans, whose modes of worship embrace various forms of idolatry. 
Brahmins, Buddhists, worshippers of the Grand Lama, of Confucius, 
and of spirits or genii, are the most prevalent: they number probably 
360 millions; Mahometans, 80 millions; Christians, Jews,&c., 10 mil¬ 
lions : total, 450 millions. 

13. Though nearly the whole of this vast multitude is involved in 
heathen darkness, yet the exertions of Christian missionaries and the 
distribution of the Scriptures in various Asiatic languages, will no doubt 
in time enlighten the nations, and lead to the spiritual redemption of 
this great continent. 


10. Describe the animals. Birds. 11. Crocodiles, &c. 12. What 

does Asia comprise ? What is said of the inhabitants ? How many 
idolaters are there ? Mahomedans, &c. ? 13. What is said of the mis¬ 

sionaries, &c. 



ASIA 


273 


178 


How is Asia bounded ? Which is the largest city and river ? 
Siberia .... 

Tartary .. . 

Turkey .. . 

Arabia .... 

Persia .... 

Afghanistan 
Beloochistan 
Hindoostan 


Bounded 

Bounded 

Bounded 

Bounded 

Bounded 

Bounded 

Bounded 

Bounded 


?—Capital ? 
?—Capital ? 
?—Capital ? 
?—Capital ? 
?—Capital ? 
?—Capital ? 
?—Capital ? 
?—Capital? 


Birmah .Bounded ?—Capital ? 

Siam .Bounded ?—Capital ? 

Anam .Bounded ?—Capital ? 

China .Bounded ?—Capital ? 

Chinese Em... Bounded ?—Capital ? 

Thibet.Bounded ?—Capital ? 

Corea.Bounded ?—Capital ? 

Japan.Bounded?—Capital? 


Where is the sea of Kara ? Kamtschatka ? Ochotsk ? Jesso ? 
Japan? Yellow Sea? Easterns.? ChinaS.? Arabians.? Red S. ? 
Dead S. ? Mediterranean S. ? Black S. ? Caspian S. ? Sea of Aral ? 

Where is the Gulf of Obe ? G. of the Lena? G. of Anadir ? 
Tonquin ? Siam ? Martaban ? Manar ? Cambay ? Cutcli ? Ormus 1 
Persian Gulf? Bay of Bengal? 

Where is Bhering’s Strait ? Strait of Matsmay ? Corea ? Formo¬ 
sa ? Malacca ? Babelmandel ? 

Where is Cape Cevero Vostochnoi ? C. Chalagskoi ? East Cape ? 
Cape St. Thadeus ? C. Cambodia ? C. Romania? C. Comorin? C. 
Ras-al-Gat ? C. Isolette ? 


Where is the Obe River? The Yenesei? Lena? Amoor ? 
Hoang-Ho? Yang-tse-kiang ? Cambodia? Meinam ? Salwen ? 
Jrrawady ? Burrampooter ? Ganges ? Godavery ? Nerbuddah ? 
Indus? Euphrates? Don? Volga? Ural? Amoo? Sihon? 
Cashgar ? 

Where are the Islands of Nova Zembla ? Kotelnoi I. ? New Siberia ? 
Liaghoff I. ? Bherings Is. ? Aleutian Is. ? Kurile Is. ? Tchantar Is. ? 
Seghalien? Jesso? Niphon ? Sikoke ? Kiusiu ? Loochoo Is. ? 
Formosa ? Hainan ? Pulo Pinang I. ? Andaman Is. ? Nicobar Is. ? 
Ceylon ? Laccadive Is. ? Maidive Is. ? Cyprus ? 

Where is Balcash Lake ? Zaizan Nor ? Altyn L. ? Baikal ? 
Poyang L. ? Touting L. ? Koko Nor? L. Zurrah ? 

Where are the Ural Mountains ? Little Altay ? Great Altay ? 
Taurus Mts. ? Mt. Sinai ? Ramleah ? Mt. Ararat ? Caucasus ? 
Elborz ? Hindoo Koo ? Ghaut ? Beloor ? Thsoung-ling ? Thian- 
chan ? Kuen-lun ? Peling ? Meling ? 

Where is the Peninsula of Kamtschatka? Corea? Malacca? 
Hindoostan ? Arabia ? What two seas form the western part of 
Turkey into a peninsula ? What seas and gulf form Arabia into a 
peninsula ? Where is the isthmus of Suez ? Of Kraw ? 

Where is the Desert of Cobi? Of Akhaf? Great Salt Desert? 
Great Sandy Desert? 

In what latitude is Asia? In what longitude? In which Zone is 
the northern part ? The centre ? Southern ? 

18 











274 DESCRIPTIVE GEOGRAPHY. 

- 179 - 

ASIATIC RUSSIA. 

1. Asiatic Russia is an immense region stretching from 
the Ural Mountains to the Pacific Ocean. It comprises 
Siberia, the countries situated between the Ural and the Volga 
rivers, and the Caspian and Black Seas; the last of which 
is called Caucasian Russia. 

SIBERIA. 

2. Siberia contains nearly a third part of Asia, and is 
mostly a cold, dreary region, occupied by wide and extensive 
plains called steppes. Some of its southern districts are 
however rich and fertile. 

3. Siberia serves as a place of banishment for convicts and 
prisoners of state. Some of these have been men of superior 
talents, and have been banished only for their virtues and 
adherence to liberal principles. 

4. The Ural and Altay Mountains contain numerous mines, which 
furnish gold, silver, platina, and different kinds of precious stones. 
Fur-bearing animals abound in Siberia, the skins of which form one 
of the chief articles of its trade. 

Its original inhabitants are composed of various ignorant and bar¬ 
barous tribes, who live by hunting and fishing. 

5. Tobolsk is the capital of Siberia: all the commerce of the country 
passes through this city, and large caravans of merchants trade be¬ 
tween it and Khokan in Tartary. Irkoutsk, Tomsk, Yakoutsk, and 
Ochotsk, are the next important towns. Kiachta is the only place at 
which the trade with China is permitted. 

6. The country lying between the Volga and Ural rivers con¬ 
tains the cities of Astrachan and Orenburg: the former derives its chief 
wealth from its sturgeon fisheries; it has also an extensive trade with 
the interior of Russia. Orenburg carries on a great trade by caravans 
with Khokan, Bucharia, Khiva, and other Tartar cities. 

CAUCASIAN RUSSIA. 

7. This country lies between the Black and Caspian Seas, 
and on both sides of the Caucasian Mountains. It is a rough 
and rugged region, but contains many fertile districts, peo- 

Asiatic Russia. Q. — 1. What is Asiatic Russia? 2. Describe Si¬ 
beria. 3. What is said of convicts, &c. ? 4. What is said of the Ural 

and Altay mountains ? 5. Describe Tobolsk, &c. 6. Astrachan, &c. 

7. Caucasian Russia. Describe the country. 8. The Circassians. 





ASIATIC RUSSIA 


275 



Circassians. 


pled by various races who are almost wholly engaged in war 
and plundering. 

8. The’Circassians inhabit the northern, and the Georgians the south- 
ern side of the mountains; the former maintain almost continual 
war with the Russians, who have long endeavoured to conquer them, 
but hitherto ineffectually. 

9. The men are celebrated for their activity and valour, and the 
women for their beauty and elegance of form ; many of the latter are 
sold by their parents as slaves to traders, who c^rry them to Turkey, 
Persia, and other countries where they are purchased by the wealthy 
classes. 

10. Teflis is the capital of Georgia ; it has a strong castle, and is the 
residence of the Russian governor. Derbent and Kisliar, both on the 
Caspian Sea, are towns of some importance. 


Map No. 12. — "What bounds Siberia on the north ? A.-On. — South ? 
A.-Ms.— East? S.-Ka.—What great rivers flow into the Arctic 
Ocean? Oe., Ye., La. — How long is each of these ? Which is the 
most northern cape of Siberia ? C.-Vi.— Eastern ? Et. Southern ? 
La. — What strait between Siberia and North America ? Bs. — How 
wide is it? What lakes are in Siberia? Bl., Ty. — How long aro 
they ? What peninsula lies east of the Sea of Ochotsk ? Ka. — What 
tribes are in Siberia? Ss., Os., Ts., Bs., Ys., Ks., Ti. — What is the 
population of Tobolsk ? Irkoutsk ? Tomsk ? Barnaule ? Omsk ? 


9. For what are the men celebrated? The women ? 10. Describe 

Teflis, &c. 












276 


DESCRIPTIVE GEOGRAPHY 


What rivers flow into the Caspian Sea? Va., Ul., ICr. —How long 
are the two first ? What mountains separate Circassia and Georgia ? 
Cs. — What countries bound Georgia on the south ? Ty., Pa. — What 
is the population of Orenburg ? Astrachan ? Derbent ? Teflis ? 

-- 180 - 

TURKEY IN ASIA. 

1. Turkey in Asia extends over some of the finest regions 
of that continent. It contained in ancient times a number of 
populous, flourishing, and important states ,* but ignorance, 
superstition, and barbarism, now cover the land; and few 
traces of its former civilization remain, except ruins. 

2. The islands of the Archipelago, once celebrated for their wealth 
and prosperity, are now reduced to a more complete state of barbarism 
than even the continent. The principal of those, still under the con¬ 
trol of the Turks, are Rhodes, Samos, Scio, and Metelin. 

3. Smyrna is the chief emporium of Asiatic Turkey. Carpets, rags 
for paper, opium, figs, &c., are the chief exports. About 2,000 Eu¬ 
ropeans, principally French, reside here, and form a society among 
themselves. 

4. Trebisonde, on the Black Sea; Brusa, Erzerum, and Diarbekir, 
in the interior; Bagdad, on the Tigris ; and Bussorah, on the Euphra¬ 
tes, are all important cities. On the west bank of the Euphrates are 
the vast, but shapeless, ruins of Babylon, the most splendid city of an¬ 
cient times; whose walls, towers, and gates, were esteemed one of tiro 
wonders of the world. 


SYRIA. 

5. Syria formed, until lately, one of the chief divisions 
of the Turkish Empire. It is now under the control of the 
ruler of Egypt; having been conquered by him from the 
Sultan, his former master, in the war of 1832. 

6. No country was anciently more celebrated than Syria. In the 
south was the country of the Israelites, and the birth-place of the 
Christian religion. The cities of Tyre and Sidon were renowned for 
their commerce; and Damascus and Antioch were famous for their 
wealth and population. 

7. Damascus, the capital of Syria, is one of the oldest places in the 
world; and is known to have existed in the days of Abraham. It is 
the most flourishing city in Syria, and carries on an extensive trade. 
Aleppo was the finest city in Syria. In 1822, it was nearly all destroy¬ 
ed by an earthquake; but is now slowly reviving. Tripoli and Beyrout, 
on the Mediterranean, are places possessing some trade. 


i 




PALESTINE 


277 



Christ and his Disciples on the Mount of Olives. 

PALESTINE. 

8. Palestine, or the Holy Land, occupies the southern 
part of Syria. It is the most celebrated country in the world ; 
and remarkable for being the scene of most of the events 
recorded in the sacred scriptures. 

9. The surface is greatly diversified with mountains and valleys. 
Of the former, Lebanon has been long noted for its tall cedars ; Pisgah, 
for thte view it gave Moses of the Promised Land ; Tabor, for the 
transfiguration of Christ; and the Mount of Olives, for being the scene 
of the ascension of the Saviour to heaven. 

10. Jerusalem, the once famous capital of the Jewish nation, where 
David and Solomon reigned, and which was so often the resort of 
Christ and his disciples, is now a gloomy, mean town, owing its chief 
support to the veneration in which it is held by Christians, Jews, and 
Mahomedans, which still procures it the visits of many pious pilgrims. 

11. Bethlehem, six miles south of Jerusalem, is remarkable for being 
the birth-place of our Saviour. Nazareth, where he resided until he 
commenced his ministry, is, next to Jerusalem, the most holy place in 
Palestine. Gaza, Joppa, and Acre, are the principal towns on the coast. 

Map No. 12. — How is Turkey bounded ? What river flows into the 
Persian Gulf? Es. — What flows into the Euphrates? Ts.—How 

Turkey, ^c. Q. — 1. Describe Turkey in Asia. 2. The islands of 
the Archipelago. 3. Smyrna. 4. Trebisonde, &c. 5. What did 

Syria form? 6. What is said of the country? 7. Damascus? 8. 
Describe Palestine. The surface. Mountains, &c. Jerusalem. Beth 
lehem. Nazareth, &c. 

















278 


DESCRIPTIVE GEOGRAPHY 


long are these rivers ? What mountains lie north of the Mediterranean 
Sea ? Ts. — How high are they ? What mountains in the north-east ? 
At. — What is the population of Smyrna ? Erzerum ? Brusa ? Tre- 
bisonde ? Bussorah ? Diarbekir ? Mosul ? Bagdad ? 

How is Syria bounded? What is the population of Damascus? 
Aleppo ? 

Map No. 13. — What sea bounds Palestine on the west ? Mn.— 
What river flows into the Dead Sea? Jn. — How long is it? How 
long is the Dead Sea ? 

- 181 - 



ARABIA. 

1. Arabia is a large peninsula, consisting of vast sandy 
deserts, interspersed with fertile spots like islands in the 
ocean ; these, when cultivated, yield various fruits and other 
products in great perfection. 

2 . Arabia comprises several distinct states, of which, the 
piincipal are Mecca, or the Hedjaz ; Nedsjed, or the territory 
of the Wahabees; and the Imamats of Yemen and Omon, 
Nearly the whole of the west coast of Arabia has been con¬ 
quered by the Pacha of Egypt; and its chief towns are 
garrisoned by his troops. 

3. The inhabitants are principally Arabians, with some Jewish and 

Arabia. Q. — 1. What is said of Arabia, &c.? 2. Describe the 





















ARABIA. 


279 


Hindoo merchants in the towns. The people of the desert, called 
Bedouins, live in tents, and lead a wandering life, keeping large herds 
of horses and camels. They are hospitable and courteous to those who 
trust and visit them ; but otten. attack and rob the caravans that pass 
through their country. 

4. The Arabs arc of a brown complexion, thin and spare in person, but 
vigorous and active. They are extremely temperate, generally content¬ 
ing themselves at meals with a few dates or a piece of hard bread, and 
a little oil or milk. 

5. The horses of this country are the finest in the world, and cele¬ 
brated for their swiftness and beauty. The most useful animal is the 
camel: it will travel for several days without water, carrying a burthen 
of 600 or 700 pounds. Coffee, dates, senna leaves, indigo, and pearls, 
are the principal products of Arabia. The last are obtained on the 
coast of the Persian Gulf 

6. Mecca, the birth-place of Mahomed, is the holy city of Mahom- 
edans, which every one of that 6ect is expected to visit once in his life¬ 
time. It is supported entirely by the pilgrims who resort thither every 
year. Their number in 1831 was estimated at 120,000. 

7. Medina is celebrated as containing the tomb of Mahomed, around 
which 300 silver lamps are kept constantly burning. Jidda is the port 
of Mecca, and Yambo that of Medina. Sana, the capital of Yemen, is 
one of the chief cities of Arabia ; and is situated in the midst of the 
most fertile district in that country. 

8. Mocha is the chief sea-port in the Red Sea; and is the seat of the 
coffee trade. Makulla and Keshin are small towns, possessing a limited 
share of commerce. Muscat is the capital of Onion, and a general 
depot for the merchandise of India and Persia. It carries on an ex¬ 
tensive commerce, both by sea, and with the interior by caravans. 

9. The Imam, or chief, of Onion has a navy, comprising several 
large ships of war; and his subjects are the best native sailors in the 
east. Besides his territory in Arabia, he possesses several large islands 
on the coast of Africa, and in the Persian Gulf. 


Map iVo. 12.— What bounds Arabia on the north? Ty., Sa.— 
South ? A.-Sa. — East ? P.-Gf., G.-Os. — West ? R.-Sa. — What 

isthmus joins Arabia to Africa ? Sz. — What mountains are in Arabia? 
Si., Rh. — What desert lies between Yemen and Omon ? Af. — What 
race inhabits it ? Bs. — What divisions of Arabia lie on the Red Sea ? 
Hz., Yn. — What on the Arabian Sea? Ht., On. — On the Persian 
Gulf? La. — How long is the Red S^a.? The Persian Gulf? What 
is the population of Muscat ? Sana ? ’ Mocha ? Mecca ? Medina ? 
Jidda? Yambo? 


Arabian states. 3. The inhabitants. The Bedouins. 4. The Arabs, 
&c. 5. Describe the horses. Camels. Principal products. 6. De¬ 

scribe Mecca. 7. Medina. 8. Mocha. Muscat, &c. 9. What is said 
of the Imam ? 




280 


DESCRIPTIVE GEOGRAPHY 


182 



PERSIA. 

1. Persia was, in early times, one of the most powerful 
empires in Asia; but its ancient splendour is abridged, and it 
presents scarcely a shadow of its former greatness. 

2. Its mountains and deserts are peopled by hordes of 
robbers, who plunder the fertile and cultivated tracts. Agri¬ 
culture is discouraged by their incursions; and places for¬ 
merly well settled, are now, in a measure, deserted. 

3. Silk is the staple produce of this country. Other productions are 
wheat, rice, cotton, tobacco, rhubarb, assafcetida, &c. The Persians 
manufacture beautiful carpets, shawls, silk, tapestry, arms, porcelain, 
&c. The foreign commerce is inconsiderable, and is now in the hands 
of Europeans. 

4. The people of Persia are the most learned and polite of the East¬ 
ern nations. They are lively and fond of show ; skilled in the use of 
flattery and compliment; but are accused of dissimulation and insin¬ 
cerity. 

5. Teheran, the capital of Persia, is a modern-built city, inhabited 
by the king, his court, and army, only during the winter months. 
The population, in consequence, fluctuates from 10,000 to 60,000. 

6. Ispahan, the ancient capital, ranked once among the most splendid 
cities in the east. Though a great part of it is in ruins, it is still a 
place of importance, with an extensive trade, and considerable manu- 


Persia. Q. — 1. What is said of Persia ? 2. Mountains, &c. ? 

3. Silk, &c. ? Foreign commerce ? 4. Describe the people. 5. Tehe¬ 
ran. 6. Ispahan. Shiraz, &c. 7. The country between Persia, &c. 



















AFGHANISTAN, BELOOCHISTAN. 281 

factures. Shiraz is celebrated for its delightful climate, and beautiful 
environs. Reshd is the chief port on the Caspian Sea, and Bushire on 
the Persian Gulf. Tabreez, Meshid, Yezd, Balfrush, and Kerman, are 
important cities. 

AFGHANISTAN. 

7. The country lying between Persia and Hindoostan was 
once a part of the Persian Empire. It is now divided into the 
separate territories of Afghanistan and Beloochistan. 

8. The inhabitants, called Afghans, are a bold and warlike race, sim¬ 
ple in their manners, and of unbounded hospitality. There are schools 
in every town and village, and in the encampments of the pastoral 
tribes, so that a limited degree of education is very generally diffused. 

9. Cabul, the capital of Afghanistan, enjoys a delightful climate ; 
and is surrounded by a fertile, well-cultivated country. The next im¬ 
portant towns are Peshawur and Candahar. 

Herat is a very ancient city. It is the capital of a small independent 
state ; and is also important on account of its manufactures and com¬ 
merce. 

BELOOCHISTAN. 

10. Beloochistan is divided among a number of small 
independent tribes, of whom the Beloochees are the chief. 
They are mostly of warlike habits, and often make plunder¬ 
ing incursions upon each other. 

11. The Brahoos, unlike the other tribes, arc peaceable, mild, and 
industrious. They follow a pastoral life; and live in little villages 
among the mountains. 

This country has but few towns. Kelat, the principal, is the resi¬ 
dence of a chiefs or Khan, to whom some of the tribes are subject. 

Map No. 12. — How is Persia bounded ? What river separates it 
from Tartary? Ak. — From Turkey? Ts., Es. — What sea on the 
north? Cn. — Gulf on the south? Pn. — What mountains extend 
across Persia? Ez. — What desert south of the Elborz Mountains? 

G.-St-What is the population of Teheran? Ispahan? Tabreez? 

Reshd ? Meshid? Yezd? Shiraz? Kerman? 

What bounds Afghanistan on the north ? H.-Iv.-Ms. — South ? Bn. 
— East? I.-Rr.— West? Pa.— What lake in the west? Zh.— 
What river flows into it ? Hd. — What is the population of Cabul ? 
Candahar ? Herat ? Peshawur ? 

What bounds Beloochistan on the north ? An. — South ? A.-Sa. — 
East? I.-Rr. — West? Pa. — What is the population of Kelat? 
Gundava ? 


8. Describe the Afghans. 9. Cabul. Herat. 10. Describe Beloochis¬ 
tan. 11. The Brahoos, &c. 






« Tartar Caravan. 


TARTARY. 

1. Tartary comprehends all the central part of Asia, 
stretching from the Caspian Sea to the Pacific Ocean. Its 
great divisions are Independent Tartary, and Chinese Tartary. 

2. Independent Tartary comprises a number of small states 
professing the Mahomedan faith, and governed by princes 
called Khans. Chinese Tartary is under the control of the 
Chinese government, and has for the most part adopted the 
worship of the Grand Lama. 

3. The inhabitants of this great region comprise several distinct 
races. Those resident in Independent Tartary and Little Bucharia are 
similar to the Turks. The people of Soongaria or the Kalmucks, and 
those of Mongolia called Mongols, are the true Tartars. The Mant- 
choos or people of Mantchooria, now the ruling race in China, differ in 
some respects from all the others. 

INDEPENDENT TARTARY OR TURKISTAN. 

4. Independent Tartary extends eastward from the 
Caspian Sea, and comprises the Kirguis country and Turco- 
mania, with the states of Khokan, Khiva, Great Bucharia, 
and Koondooz. 

Tartary. Q. — 1. What does Tartary comprehend ? 2. What does 
Independent Tartary comprise ? Chinese Tartary? 3. What is said 
of the inhabitants ? 4. Describe Independent Tartary. 5. Its states. 












TART ARY. 


« 


283 


5. The four last arc all fertile districts, inhabited by an industrious 
people, who are chiefly engaged in agriculture and trade. TheUsbecks 
are the predominant race, hence this country is sometimes called 
Usbeck Tartary. 

6. An extensive commerce is carried on between these states and 
Persia, Ilindoostan, China, and Russia. The caravans proceed in large 
bodies, and arc well armed ; consisting sometimes of several thousand 
men, horses, and camels. 

7. The principal cities are Bucharia, Khokan, Tashkent, Khiva, and 
Samurcand. Bucharia, the capital of the territory of the same name, 
contains numerous mosques and colleges. It is the chief seat of 
Mahomedan learning in this quarter, and is visited by a great number 
of students. Khiva is rather a fixed encampment, than a regular 
town; it is the principal slave-market in Tartary. Samarcand, once 
the most renowned city in Asia, is now nearly all in ruins. 

8. The Kirguis and Turcomans raise large numbers of horses and 
camels, and wander about from place to place. The Turcomans often 
carry away the inhabitants from the frontier Persian villages, and sell 
them for slaves in the markets of Khiva and Bucharia. 

CHINESE TARTARY. 

9. Chinese Tartary comprises Little Bucharia, Soon- 
garia, Mongolia, and Mantchooria. The chief part of this 
region is an extensive elevated plain, bounded by ranges of 
some of the most lofty mountains in Asia. 

10. The whole territory, except that part of it occupied by the Great 
Desert of Cobi, appears to be better suited to grazing than agriculture, 
and is inhabited principally by various roving tribes, who live in tents, 
and raise great numbers of horses. 

11. Little Bucharia and Soongaria are the best-settled and most 
fertile divisions of this territory : they contain several populous cities, 
of which Goulja, Yarkand, and Cashgar, appear to be the chief. 

12. Mantchooria is watered by the great river Amoor; it contains 
several cities and towns, and a stationary population in some parts. 
Chin Yang is said to be the chief city in that district of it adjoining to 
China. 


Map No. 12. — How is Independent Tartary bounded? What sea 
on the west ? Cn. — In the centre ? Al. — How long are these ? 
What rivers flow into the Caspian sea? Ul., Ak. — Into the sea of 
Aral ? Sn., Ao. — How long are these rivers ? What mountains are 

6. What is said of commerce ? 7. Describe the cities, &c. 8. The 

Kirguis and Turcomans. 9. What is said of Chinese Tartary ? 10. 

For what is it suited / II. Describe Little Bucharia and Soongaria. 
12. Mantchooria, 




284 


DESCRIPTIVE GEOGRAPHY. 



in the country ? H.-Ko., Br., L.-Ay. — What is the population of 

Tashkent ? Bucharia ? Khokan ? Samarcand ? 

How is Chinese Tartary bounded? What are its chief mountains? 
L.-Ay., Br., Tg., Tn., G.-Ay., Kn. — How high are the three last? 
Which are the principal lakes ? Bh., Zr., Lr. — The principal rivers ? 
Cr., Ih., Sa., Ar., Si., Ui. — What great desert in the south? Ci.— 
How long is it? What is the population of Goulj a ? Cashgar ? Yar¬ 
kand ? 

-184- 


INDIA. 

1. India has been always celebrated for its great fertility, 
and the profusion of its rich and valuable products. It com¬ 
prises two large peninsulas, situated between the seas of 
Arabia and China. The western division is called Hindoos- 
tan, and the other Chin-India, or Farther India. 

2. Both the peninsulas of India are remarkable for the 
number and size of their rivers, whose waters and inundations, 
united with the heat of the climate, make them the most 
productive countries on earth. The term East Indies is also 
used very frequently for the whole of south-eastern Asia and 
China. 

3. The elephant here attains his greatest bulk and perfection ; and 
has been rendered useful to man from the earliest times. White ele- 


India . Q. — 1. For what has India been celebrated? 2. What is 
said of the peninsulas ? 3. The elephant ? White elephant ? 















INDIA. 


285 

phants, though sometimes met with, are rare. In Birmah and Siam 
they are believed to contain the spirit of some departed monarch, and, 
as such, have the title of a king; and when taken abroad, the people 
are obliged to prostrate themselves as before their actual sovereign. 

HINDOOSTAN. 

4. Hindoostan is one of the most remarkable countries 
in the east. Its singular customs, and rich products, have 
attracted the attention of the surrounding nations from the 
earliest period of history. 

5. The climate of the chief part of Hindoostan is that of 
the torrid zone, which among the mountains is rendered tem¬ 
perate by elevation. With the exception of a few desert, 
sandy tracks, the soil of this country is generally very fertile. 

6. The agriculture is imperfect, though the produce is abun¬ 
dant. Rice is the chief article of food, but other grains are 
cultivated. Cotton, silk, sugar, opium, tobacco, and indigo, 
are all extensively produced; also, coffee, pepper, cinna¬ 
mon, &c. 

7. The cotton manufactures have been long celebrated for their fine- 
ness and beauty. Silk is an important manufacture; and the shawls 
of Cashmere are unrivalled. The Hindoos excel in working gold and 
silver; and in cutting, polishing, and setting precious stones. 

8. The inland trade of Hindoostan is carried on by Banians, or 
Hindoo merchants, Armenians, and Parsees. The foreign commerce 
is in the hands of the English, Americans, &c. This country produces 
the finest diamonds in the world ; for, though those of Brazil are of 
greater size, the diamonds of Golconda are superior in hardness and 
brilliancy. Gold, iron, tin, and zinc, are among the minerals. 

9. The Hindoos are in complexion almost black, with long hair, straight 
limbs, and pleasing countenances. They are an indolent and spiritless 
race, excessively superstitious; and are described as being nearly des¬ 
titute of moral honesty. 

10. They are divided into four castes, or classes :—1. The Bramins 
or priests. 2. The Rajah-pootras, or soldiers. 3. Vaisyas, or merchants 
and farmers. 4. The Sudras, or labourers. These castes never inter¬ 
marry, and do not even eat or drink together; and every succeeding 
generation must belong to the same class as their parents. 

11. The religion of the Hindoos is a degrading system of paganism. 
Bramah is the supreme deity, and there are many millions of inferior 
divinities. They also worship the River Ganges, the cow, ape, and 


4. What is said of Hindoostan ? 5. The climate ? 6. Agriculture ? 

7. Cotton manufactures, &c. ? 8. Inland trade ? Foreign commerce 7 

If diamonds? 9. Describe the Hindoos. 10. How are they divided ? 



28G 


DESCRIPTIVE GEOGRAPHY 


other animals. There are likewise in Hindoostan a number of Mahom- 
edans, with some Christians, both native and European, and Jews. 

12. The chief part of Hindoostan is under the control of the British 
East India company. Their territory contains a population of about 85 
millions ;,the tributary states 38 millions, total of the company’s territory 
123 millions. To this must be added one million for the Island of 
Ceylon, which is a colony belonging to the crown. Total of British 
India, 124 millions. Of this great multitude, the Europeans do not, 
probably, exceed 50,000 individuals. The independent states contain 
about 16 million inhabitants. 

13. Great efforts are now making by various missionary societies for 
introducing Christianity into India. Many of the natives have re¬ 
nounced their false gods; and some of them have even become mis¬ 
sionaries. 


185 



View in Calcutta. 


14. Calcutta, the capital of British India, is the largest city in Hin¬ 

doostan. It is situated about 100 miles from the sea, on the Hoogly 
branch of the Ganges; and, properly, comprises two divisions. Chou- 
ringee, the part inhabited by the English, is a city of palaces ; while 
the Black Town, inhabited by the Hindoos, is an assemblage of 
thatched inud huts. v 

15. Bombay, the capital of Western British India, is noted for its com¬ 
merce and ship-building. Madras, the capital of Southern British 
India, is situated on a flat sandy shore, and has no harbour. It presents 
a fine appearance from the sea; and many of its public buildings are 
handsome structures. 

Surat is next to Calcutta in population. It is noted for its manufac¬ 
tures of silks, brocades, and fine cotton stuffs. Benares is venerated bv 
the Hindoos as a most holy city, and crowds of pilgrims visit it from 
all parts of the country. 

16. Ceylon is a beautiful fertile island, belonging to the British 


11. Of religion? 12. What is said of the British East India Com¬ 
pany ? 13. Of missionary societies? 14. Describe Calcutta. 15. 

Bombay. Madras. Surat. Benares. 16. Ceylon. The Coralline Isles. 

























Birman Temples and War-Boats. 

CHIN-INDIA. 

1. Chin-India, or Farther India, is situated between Hin- 
doostan and China. It comprises the empires of Birmah and 
Anam, the kingdom of Siam, the British territories, and the 
petty states of Malacca. It is a well-watered, fertile region, 
and is prolific in various tropical products. 


INDIA. 


287 


crown, and independent of the East India company. It is noted for 
producing the finest cinnamon in the world. 

The Coralline Isles comprise the Laccadive and Maidive groups. 
They lie west and south-west from Hindoostan. Though numerous, 
they are small in extent; and produce cocoa-nuts in considerable 
abundance. 


Map No. 12. — How is Hindoostan bounded ? What rivers flow into 
the Arabian Sea ? Is., Nh. — Into the Bay of Bengal ? Gs., Br., Gy., 
Ka. — How long are all these rivers? What mountains are in the 
north-east? Hh. — In the south-west ? Gt. — How long and high are 
the first? What island lies south of Hindoostan ? Cn. — How long 
and wide is it? What gulf separates it from Hindoostan? Mr.— 
What islands lie west and south-west from Hindoostan ? Le., Me.- 
What are they called ? Ce.-Is.— What is the population of Calcutta ? 
Surat ? Delhi ? Lucknow ? Patna ? Madras ? Bombay ? Benares ? 
Dacca, and the other large cities ? What is the south-east coast of 
Hindoostan called ? Cl. — The south-west ? Mr. 


Chin-India. Q .— 1. Describe Chin-India. 2. The inhabitants. The 














288 


DESCRIPTIVE GEOGRAPHY. 


2. Nearly all the inhabitants of this region profess the 
religion of Buddha, or Guadama. Great attention is paid by 
them to the building of costly temples, which are very gaud¬ 
ily ornamented with gilding, painting, and varnishing. The 
war-boats of these nations, especially of the Birmans, are 
often 100 feet long, but very narrow. They carry from 80 
to 100 men, with a small cannon at the prow. 

3. The governments of Chin-India are completely despotic. The 
nobles show the most profound submission to their sovereign, lying 
prostrate on their faces, and creeping on the ground before him ; and 
every male subject above 20 years of age, excepting the priests and 
public officers, must serve the government three years, either as a sol- 
dier or a labourer. 

4. In all these countries, the morals of the people are in a low state; 
and the women, in general, are little better than slaves, being obliged 
to perform the principal part of the hard labour; and, in Anam, they 
likewise conduct all the operations of buying and selling. 


5. Population and Extent of Chin-India. 


Square Miles. Inhabitants. Square Miles. 


Anam. 


10,000,000 

British territories . 

.. 77.000 

Birmah. 


5,000,000 

Malacca . 


Siam. 


3,800,000 

Total, 

920,000 


Inhabitants. 

1,000,000 

200,000 

20,000,000 


- 1S6 - 


BIRMAH. 

6. The Birman Empire was founded about eighty years 
ago, and for a considerable period was the most important 
power in this quarter. ' The Birmans are a military people, 
and their armies were, until their late contest with the East 
India Company, thought to be very efficient. 

7. Ava, about 500 miles from the sea, has been the capital since 1824. 
The former metropolis, Umerapoora, though but lately a splendid city, 
is already much decayed. 

Rangoon, near the mouth of the Irrawaddy river, is the chief sea¬ 
port of the empire. 


temples. War-boats. 3. What is said of the governments ? Nobles ? 
Male subjects ? 4. Morals, &c. ? Of the women ? 5. How many 

inhabitants has Chin-India? What is its extent in square miles? 
Which is the largest division ? The most populous ? 

Birmah. Q. — 6. When was the Birman Empire founded ? 
What is said of the Birmans? 7. Describe Ava. Umerapoora, &c. 













INDIA. 


289 


ANAM. 

8. The empire of Anam is of recent origin, and dates 
only from the beginning of the present century. It com¬ 
prises Tonquin, Cochin-China, and Cambodia, with part of 
Laos. 

9. The late Emperor Caung Shung, organized his army and navy, 
constructed fortresses, and established armories after the European 
manner; he thus acquired a formidable military force, and was enabled 
to add to his original possessions the important territories of Tonquin 
and Cambodia. 

10. Hue, the capital, is an immense fortification, built in the European 
style; 100,000 men were employed on the works during the period of 
their construction, and 1,200 cannon were mounted on the walls. 
Saigon, in Cambodia, is the chief sea-port of the empire : it contains a 
royal arsenal, and carries on an extensive commerce. 

SIAM. 

11. Siam is a considerable kingdom, situated between 
Birmah and Anam; its territory, watered by the Meinam 
river, is fertile and highly prolific in various tropical pro- ' 
ductions. The people are mild and courteous, but cunning 
and avaricious. 

12. Bankok, the capital, is situated on the river Meinam, and may be 
regarded JBvhost. 4s a city floating on the water; many of the houses 
are builfrrpon rafts moored in the river, and can be easily moved from 
place to place; these are inhabited chiefly by Chinese, who constitute 
a large portion of the population. 

BRITISH POSSESSIONS. 

13. T^p British possessions in Chin-India, comprise a strip 
of territory lying south of the Burrampooter river, and an¬ 
other south of the Salwen ; these were both acquired at the 
close of the late war with Birmah. 

14. Arracan and Amherst are the chief towns: to these may be 
added the town and territory of Malacca, Pulo Pinang, or Prince of 
Wales Island, and the city of Singapore; the latter was founded in 
1820, and declared a free port. It has in consequence acquired an 
extensive commerce. Its population has doubled in amount since 1828. 


8. What is said of Anam ? 9. The Emperor ? 10. Describe Hue. 

Saigon. 11. What is said of Siam ? 12. Bankok? 13. Describe tho 

19 






290 


DESCRIPTIVE GEOGRAPHY 


MALACCA. 



Orang Outang. 


15. The peninsula of Malacca is 
Occupied by a number of small inde¬ 
pendent states, of which but little is 
known. The inhabitants, chiefly 
Mahomedans, are called Malays, 
and are by turns merchants, pirates, 
and robbers. 

16. The well-known Orang Outang is 
found in Malacca. The fables long pro¬ 
pagated of this gigantic Ape, walking 
erect like a man, waging war with clubs, 
&c. are all now exploded. Its natural 
conformation proves, in agreement with 
its habits, that it is only adapted for 
climbing trees and living among the 
branches. 


Map No. 12. — How is Birmah bounded ? Siam bounded ? Anam 
bounded? Malacca bounded? What rivers flow into the Gulf of 
Martaban? Iy., Sn. — Into the Gulf of Siam? Mn.—China sea? 
Ca. — How long are all these rivers ? What isthmus connects Malacca 
with Siam? Kw. — What strait separates it from Sumatra? Ma.— 
Which is the south cape of Birmah ? Ns. — Of Malacca ? Ra. — Of 
Cambodia ? Ca. — What is the population of Bankok ? Ava ? Hue ? 
Saigon ? Umerapoora ? Arracan ? Singapore ? What islands lie 
west of Siam ? An. Nr. 

- 187 - 

CHINESE EMPIRE. 

1. The Chinese empire contains the greatest number of 
inhabitants subject to any one government in the world. It 
embraces China, Chinese Tartary, Corea, and Thibet. The 
population of the whole is supposed to be 230 millions. -The 
great mass of the people are Chinese ; but the ruling race, to 
which the Emperor belongs, is the Mantchoo, by whom China 
was conquered, in 1644. 


British Possessions. 14. Arracan, &c. 15. Malacca. Andaman and 

Nicobar islands. 16. What is said of the Orang Outang ? 

China. Q. — 1. What does the Chinese empire contain? What is 







CHINA 


291 



Group of Chinese. 

CHINA. 


2. China comprises a territory about three-fourths the 
size of the United States. It is noted for the great antiquity 
of its government; the singularity of its manners and cus¬ 
toms ; and for its jealous and reserved policy towards other 
nations. 

3. The soil and climate, from the great extent of country, 
are extremely various. The former is cultivated with the 
greatest care, in every part: even the mountains and rocks 
are made to yield some useful product. 

4. Manufactures are numerous; and many of them have been car¬ 
ried, by the Chinese, to a state of considerable perfection. Foreign 
commerce is carried on at Canton, chiefly with the English and Amer¬ 
icans, in tea, silks, cotton, and china-ware. 

5. The export of tea alone to Great Britain and the United States is 
about 60 millions of pounds, annually. The inland trade of China, by 
means of the numerous rivers and canals, is very extensive. The 
Grand, or Imperial canal is the largest in the world, being 600 miles 
in length. It is said to have employed 30,000 men upwards of 40 
years in its construction. 

6. The great wall which bounds China on the north is, probably, the 
greatest work ever accomplished by man. It is 1,500 miles in length, 
24 feet in height, and of such thickness, that six horsemen can easily 
ride abreast upon it. It was built 2,000 years ago, as a defence against 
the Tartars. 


said of the people ? 2. What does China comprise ? For what is it 

noted ? 3. What is said of the soil ? 4. Manufactures ? Foreign 

commerce ? 5. Export of tea ? The Grand canal ? 6. The great 










292 


DESCRIPTIVE GEOGRAPHY* 


7. The chief beauty of the women, in this country, is thought to be 
the smallness of their feet, which are bound up from infancy in order 
to prevent their growing to the natural size. Tlie shoes of a Chinese 
lady are about four inches in length, and two in breadth. 

8. The principal food used is rice ; but the poorer classes eat rats, 
mice, and puppies; and often suffer from famine. Soups made of 
edible birds’-nests, sea-slug, and other gummy substances, are among 
the luxuries of the rich. 

9. Learning is highly esteemed in China. They have ihany books, 
on various subjects, yet are very deficient in true literature and science. 
The Mandarins, or great officers, employed in the administration of the 
government, owe their rank and title entirely to their skill in letters. 



Chinese Military. 


10. The army of China is said to amount to 800,000 men ; but, 
compared with European soldiers, their appearance is most unmilitary. 
Their paper helmets, wadded gowns, quilted petticoats, and clumsy 
satin boots, present nothing of the aspect of war. There are a few 
small armed vessels to suppress smuggling and piracy, but nothing that 
can be called a navy. 

11. The Chinese are, in many respects, a civilized people, and are 
distinguished for order, industry, and regularity ; but their treatment of 
females, exposing of infants, and general disregard of truth, are cir¬ 
cumstances which lower them in the scale of nations, and rank them 
below the least civilized of any of the Christian communities. 

12. The religion of Fo and Buddha is professed by the chief part 
of the people ; but the learned men worship the spirit of their great 
philosopher, Confucius. There are also some Mahomcdans and Roman 
Catholics in China. The government is despotic, and is conducted 
with great form and ceremony. The Emperor is styled the Son of 
Heaven ; and when he goes abroad, the houses and shops must be shut, 
and all that he meets must prostrate themselves on the ground. 


wall? 7. What is said of the women ? 8. The food ? 9. Learning? 

10. The army? 11. Chinese? 12. Religion? 13. Describe Pekin. 












THIBET 


293 


13. Pekin, the capital of China, is one of the largest cities in tho 
world. It contains two distinct towns, the Chinese and Tartar, of 
which the former is the most elegant and populous; but the latter is 
adorned by the imperial palace and gardens. The shops are very 
numerous, and principally only one story high : they are adorned with 
flags, varnish, paintings, and lanterns. The streets are immensely 
crowded, for the Chinese spend much of their time in the open air. 

14. Nankin, the ancient capital, is much larger than Pekin; but it 
is now greatly decayed, and is noted for its porcelain tower, and its 
manufactures of nankeen. 

Canton is the only port at which Europeans are allowed to trade and 
reside. Its commerce is very great, and it is said that 5000 vessels are 
often seen lying before the city at once. Shanghae is, next to Canton, 
the greatest commercial city of China. Teentsin is the port of Pekin, 
and a great emporium for salt; its inhabitants have more resemblance 
to Europeans, than those of any other part of the empire. Sootchow, 
Hangtchow, Ivingteching, and Voutchang, are all populous cities, and 
situated in the midst of rich and fertile districts. 

- 188 - 

THIBET. 

1. Thibet is a cold elevated region, bounded by ranges 
of the highest mountains on the globe; and some of the 
largest rivers on the eastern continent take their rise within 
its territory. This country, together with Bootan and Little 
Thibet, all belong to China. 

2. The soil is sterile, and vegetation is scanty; but the people possess 
large herds of cattle. The musk deer, broad-tailed sheep, and shawl 
goat, are some of the chief animals of this country ; the latter furnishes 
the fine wool, of which the valuable shawls of Cashmere are made. 

3. Thibet is the chief seat of the religion of Buddha, called Fo in 
China, and Shamaism in Tartary. The Grand Lama is the head of 
this system, and is considered as the Creator himself, dwelling in a 
human form ; and when he dies, the divine spirit is supposed to pass 
into another body, known by certain signs to the priests only. 

4. Lassa is the religious capital of Central Asia, and the residence 
of the Chinese governor. Not far from the city, is the temple or palace 
of the Grand Lama ; it is said to contain ten thousand rooms : the 
towers and obelisks of the building are covered with gold and silver, 
and there are innumerable images of Buddha of gold, silver, and other 
metals. 

The shops. 14. Nankin. Canton. The other principal cities of 
China. 

Thibet. Q. — 1. What is Thibet? 2. What is said of the soil? 
Of cattle ? 3. Of religion ? The Grand Lama ? 4. Describe Lassa. 

5. Tcshoo Lomboo. 





294 


DESCRIPTIVE GEOGRAPHY 



Palace of Teshoo Lomboo. 


5. Teshoo Lomboo is the seat of an inferior Lama, who resides in a 
large monastery, composed of 400 houses, encompassed by a high wall. 
Jigagungar is the most populous city in Thibet. 


Map No. 12. — How is China bounded? What sea lies between 
China and Corea ? Yw. — What rivers flow into the Eastern sea? 
H.-Ho., Yg., H.-Kg. — How long are they ? What islands lie east of 
China ? Lo., Fa. — What islands south ? Hn. — How long are For¬ 
mosa and Hainan ? What mountains are in China ? Pg., Mg. — 
What lakes ? Tg., Pg., K.-Nr. — What is the population of Pekin ? 
Canton ? Teentsin ? Sootchow ? Hangtchow ? Kingteching ? Nan¬ 
kin ? Voutchang ? 

How is Thibet bounded? What rivers take their rise in it? Br., 
Iy., Ca., Yg.— How long are all these ? What mountains are on the 
north ? Kn. — The south-west ? Hh. — How high are these ? What 
mountain west of Lassa ? Ce. — How high is it ? What river 
runs through Little Thibet ? Is. — What is the population of Jigagun¬ 
gar ? Of Lassa ? 


~- 189 - 

COREA. 

1. Corea is a large peninsula, situated between China and 
Japan. The people have no intercourse with any nation, ex¬ 
cept the Chinese and Japanese, and are consequently but 
little known. 

2. This kingdom is ruled by a sovereign, who pays homage and 
tribute to China. The arts, learning, and written language of that 
country are in use in Corea; but the spoken language is entirely differ¬ 
ent. Kingkitao, the capital, is situated nearly in the centre of the 
country. 


Corea and Japan. Q. — 1. What is Corea ? 2. What is said of the 

sovereign? Arts, learning, &c.? Kingkitao? 3. What does Japan 














EMPIRE OF JAPAN. 


295 


EMPIRE OF JAPAN. 

3. The empire of Japan comprises the islands of Niphon, 
Iviusiu, and Sikoke, with the southernmost of the Kurile islands. 
The people, like the Chinese, are very jealous of Europeans ; 
so that our knowledge of the country is rather limited. 

4. The agriculture is in a highly improved state. Rice, 
wheat, sugar, cotton, and tobacco, are extensively cultivated, 
and the tea-plant grows wild in the hedges. The manufac¬ 
tures are numerous, and include silk, cotton, porcelain, and 
lackered or Japan ware, in which? and the working of metals, 
the Japanese excel. Gold, silver, and copper, are the princi¬ 
pal minerals found in this eountry- 

5. Japan is one of the most civilized nations in Eastern Asia. The 
people pay great attention to the education of their children, and females 
hre instructed with tire same care as the other sex. They rigorously 
exclude foreigners from the empire, and permit none but the Chinese, 
Coreans, and Dutch, to have intercourse with them. The latter are 
subject to much indignity, yet they submit to it for the sake of the 
profits of the trade. 

G. Tire worship of Buddha, of Confucius, and of spirits, or genii, 
prevails in Japan. The last is called the religion of Sinto. The 
government is absolute ; and there are two raonarchs; the Ivubo, or 
commander in chief of the army, is the real sovereign ; while tire 
Dairi is the spiritual head of the empire, lie lives retired, in his palace 
at Miaca, and seldom ventures abroad, except on a visit to some of the 
great temples. 

7. Tire lawg are extremely severe, and are rigorously executed. 
The security of person and property is, in consequence, rendered very 
complete. Great crimes and capital punishments are, perhaps, more 
rare here than in almost any other nation. Cutting to pieces, and im¬ 
mersion in boiling oil, are common modes of punishing the guilty. 
The parent is made to suffer for the crimes of tbe child, and the child 
for those of the parent. 

8. Jcdo, the capital, is one of the largest cities in the world. It is 
seven miles long, and five broad ; and contains many palaces of the 
great lords, who must reside here part of tlie year. The buildings, on 
account of tlie frequency of earthquakes, are built of one story only. 
The city is subject to dreadful fires, one of which, in the year 1701, 
consumed 100,000 houses. 


comprise? 4. What is said of the agriculture? Manufactures? 
Gold, Ac. ? 5. What is Japan? What is said of education ? For¬ 
eigners? 6. The worship of Buddha, Ac.? The government? Mon- 
archs? 7. What is said of the laws? Cutting to pieces, Ac. ? 8. 

Describe Jedo. 9, Miaco. Osaco. NangasakL 



296 


DESCRIPTIVE GEOGRAPHY 


9. Miaco is the religious capital of Japan; and is also the centre of 
its literature and science. It contains some very large palaces and 
temples. One of the latter, Fokosi, is 1,000 feet long; and contains 
an image of Buddha, 83 feet high. Osaca is a large city in Niphon. 
It is, like Venice, intersected by numerous canals. Nangasaki, in 
Kiusiu, is the only port at which foreigners are allowed to trade. The 
Dutch are here restricted to a small island, where they are allowed a 
space of only 600 feet long, by 120 wide, in which to carry on their 
business. 


Map No. 12.—What sea bounds Corea on the west? Yw. — On 
the east ? Jn. — How wide is the sea of Japan ? What strait sepa¬ 
rates Corea from Japan? Ca. — What country bounds Corea on the 
north ? Ma. — What sea on the south ? En. — Which is the largest 
of the Japan Islands? Nn. — The next in extent? Jo. — How long 
is each of these islands ? What strait separates Niphon and Jesso ? 
My. — What island lies north of Jesso ? Sn. — How Jong is Seghalien ? 
What channel separates it from Mantehooria? Ty.— What islands 
lie north-east of Jesso? Ke.— Which is the largest of these? Sn.— 
What ocean bounds Japan on the east ? Pc.— How long and wide is 
the Pacific ocean ? How many miles is it from Japan to Mexico ? 
How many inhabitants has Jedo ? Miaco ? Osaca ? Matsmay ? 

-190- 

AFRICA. 

1. Africa is the third in size among the great divisions 
of the globe, being about one-third less than Asia, and three 
times larger than Europe. It is a vast peninsula, joined to 
Asia by the Isthmus of Suez. 

2. This quarter of the world is almost wholly in a state 
of barbarism; yet, in ancient times its northern countries 
were among the most enlightened in the world, and still have 
written languages.' They are now, however, among the 
lowest of the half-civilized nations. 

3. Africa is the hottest region of the globe ; and lies mostly 
within the tropics ; and the influence of a tropical climate ex¬ 
tends even to those portions which are in the temperate zones. 

The most striking natural feature is the great desert, which 
extends 3,000 miles in length, and 1,000 in breadth. It is 
covered with sand and gravel; and appears like the bottom of 
a dried-up sea. 


Africa. Q. — 1. What is said of Africa? 2. Of this quarter, &c. ? 






AFRICA. 


297 



Africa. 

4. The rivers of Africa are but few in number; and none 
of them are navigable, to any extent, for large vessels. The 

'princpal streams are the Niger and the Nile. The latter is 
remarkable for flowing sixteen hundred miles without re¬ 
ceiving a single tributary. 

5. The mountains are, generally, more distinguished for 
their extent than their elevation. The Atlas Mountains in 
Barbary, the Mountains of the Moon in central, and the Snow 
Mountains in southern Africa, are the principal. Other 
ranges, as the Crystal Mountains in Congo, and the Lupata 
Mountains on the east coast, are so little known, that even 
their very existence is doubted. 

6. The principal African animals are the elephant, hippopotamus, 
camelopard or giraffe, and the two-horned rhinoceros, with the lion, 
leopard, zebra, &c. The African lion is the noblest animal of his race ; 
those found elsewhere being much inferior in size and strength. The 
antelopes comprise not less than sixty different species : of these, the 
springbok is found in troops of several thousands. The camel in north¬ 
ern, and the ass in western Africa, are the chief beasts of burden, and 
are often employed in long and painful journeys. 

The ostrich is the largest African bird, and the largest in the 
world. It runs with great rapidity, but does not fly ; and its feathers 
are valuable as ornaments of dress. The secretary vulture, or serpent- 

3. The Great Desert ? 4. Rivers ? 5. Mountains ? 6. Describe the 

animals. 7. Birds. 8. Crocodiles, &c. 9. Great kingdoms. Agri- 







298 


descriptive geography, 



African Lion. Springbok. 


eater is remarkable for devouring the most noxious of the serpent tribe. 
The sociable vulture, as large as the condor, and similar in its habits, 
is found among all the high mountains of the interior. The bustard 
and guinea-fowl, with grouse, partridges, and water-fowl of various 
kinds, are numerous. 

8. Crocodiles are found in all the rivers of the tropical parts of 
Africa; and serpents, scorpions, and lizards of various kinds, abound. 
The white ants are singular insects. They build nests 10 or 12 feet 
high, which are divided into apartments with magazines for provisions, 
arched chambers, and galleries of communication. 

9. Africa has fewer great kingdoms than Asia or Europe. It is 
chiefly divided into a number of petty states, whose governments are 
rude and despotic. The operations of agriculture and manufactures 
are very imperfectly performed; yet, owing to the fertility of the soil, 
the products of the former are in many places very abundant. 

10. The chief trade of the interior is carried on by caravans, con¬ 
sisting of numbers of camels, which cross the desert in various direc¬ 
tions ; and perform, on this sea of sand, the business accomplished by 
ships on the ocean. Commerce, on the northern and western coasts, is 
carried on mostly by Europeans, and on the east by the Arabs. 

11. Africa has furnished slaves to Christian and other nations for 
hundreds of years; and the traffic, though somewhat checked of late, 
is still actively carried on. 

Great Britain and the United States were formerly deeply engaged 
in it; but both nations have forbidden it; and it is punished as piracy 
by the latter power. The French, Spanish, and Portuguese, still pursue 
the trade on certain parts of the African coast. 

12. The people of Africa are estimated to amount to almost 60 mil- 


culture. Manufactures. 10. Trade of the interior. Commerce. 11. 
What is said of slaves? Great Britain and the United States? 
12. What number of inhabitants ? To what do they belong, &c. 




AFRICA. 


299 


lions. They belong to two great races, the African and Caucasian. 
The former are the most numerous, and comprise the chief part of the 
inhabitants south of the Great Desert. They are nearly all pagans ; 
and are extremely ignorant and superstitious. 

The Moors, Arabs, Berbers, Egyptians, Abyssinians, Fellatas, &c., 
belong to the Caucasian race. They are chiefly Mahomedans; and 
though superior in knowledge to the African races, are still rude and 
barbarous. 


191 


How is Africa bounded ? 


Morocco ... Bounded ?—Capital ? 
Algiers .... Bounded ?—Capital ? 

Tunis.Bounded?—Capital? 

Tripoli .... Bounded ?—Capital ? 

Egypt.Bounded ?—Capital ? 

Nubia.Bounded?—Capital? 

Abyssinia .. Bounded ?—Capital ? 
Liberia .... Bounded ?—Capital ? 


Ashantee .. . Bounded ?—Capital ? 
Dahomey .. Bounded ?—Capital ? 

Benin .Bounded ?—Capital ? 

Congo.Bounded ?—Capital ? 

Angola .... Bounded ?—Capital ? 
Benguela . .. Bounded ?—Capital ? 
(’ape Colony Bounded ?—Capital ? 
Mozambique Bounded ?—Capital ? 


Where is the Gulf of Sidra? -Gulf of Guinea? Gulf of Aden? 
Strait of Gibraltar ? Strait of Bubelmandel ? Channel of Mozambique ? 

Where is Great Fish Bay? Walwisch B. ? Santa Cruz B. ? St 
Helena B. ? Delagoa B. ? Bombetok B. ? Anton Gils B. ? Vohe- 
maire B. ? 

Where is Cape Bona ? C. Guardafui ? C. Bassas ? C. Delgado ? 
C. Corrientes ? C. Lagullas ? C. of Good Hope ? C. Cross ? C. 
Frio? C. Palmas ? C. Verde? C. Blanco? C. Bojador ? C. Ambro? 
C. St. Mary ? 

Where is the River Nile ? The Senegal River-? Gambia? Grande? 
St. Paul’s? Niger? Congo? Ambriz? Coanza? Bembaroughe ? 
Orange? Manice ? Zambeze? Ozee ? Webbe ? Yeou? Shary ? 
Misselad ? 

Where .are the Atlas Mountains ? Mts. of Kong ? Mts. of the 
Moon ? Crystal Mts. ? Luputa Mts. ? Snow Mts. ? Red Mts. ? 
Radama Mts. ? 

Where are the Azores Islands ? Madeira Is. ? Canary Is. ? Cape 
Verde Is. ? Fernando Po I. ? Prince’s I. ? St. Thomas I. ? Anno- 
bon I.? Ascension I.? St. Helena? Ethiopian Archipelago? Mas- 
carenha Is. ? Mauritius I. ? Bourbon I. ? Seychelle Is. ? Almirante 
Is. ? Comoro Is. ? Monfia I. ? Zanzibar I. ? Pemba I. ? Socotra I. ? 

Where is the Great Desert? Libyan Desert? Nubian Desert? 
Desert of Challahengah ? This is called also the Karri Harri Desert. 

What three great circles pass through Africa ? T.-Cr., Er., T.-Cn. 

In what zones is Africa situated ? Td., Te. In what zone is it mostly ? 
Td. Africa contains 37 degrees of north and 35 of south latitude. In 
what latitude then is it mostly ? Nh. It contains 50 degrees of east 
and 18 of west longitude. In what longitude then is it chiefly ? Et. 












300 



Arab Families removing. 

BARBARY. 


1. Barbary is that part of northern Africa which includes 
Morocco, Algiers, Tunis, and Tripoli, together with the in¬ 
terior region called Beled el Jerid, or Land of Dates. 

2. It is traversed some distance inland by the Atlas Moun¬ 
tains, between which and the sea-coast the climate is mild, 
and the soil is, generally, fertile, but poorly cultivated. Wheat 
and barley are the principal products ; but grapes, olives, 
almonds, dates, and other fruits, are raised in great perfection. 

3. The foreign commerce of the Barbary states is extremely 
limited, and much burthened with arbitrary exactions. The 
exports consist principally of the raw produce of the soil. 
The most active traffic is that carried on by the caravans 
with the interior country south of the Great Desert. 

4. Piracy was once the chief employment of the people of 
this region. Many vessels were captured, and numbers of 
European and American sailors were enslaved by them ; but 
this practice, so long a disgrace to Christendom, no longer 
exists. 

5. Barbary is inhabited by several distinct races. The Moors, who 
are the ruling people, inhabit the towns. The Arabs, originally from 
the Great Desert, live in tents ; and raise cattle and grain. In re- 


j Barbary. Q. — 1. What does Barbary include? 2. By what is it 
traversed ? What is said of the climate ? Soil, &c. ? Products ? 3. 

Commerce ? 4. Piracy ? 5. Describe the Moors. 6. Shelluhs ? Jews, 







MOROCCO. 


301 


moving from one. spot to another, the women, children, and smaller 
domestic animals, are carried on camels. The men, on horseback, 
drive the cattle; and are armed, ready to defend their property, or repel 
aggression. 

6. The Shelluhs inhabit the Atlas Mountains, and live chiefly by 
hunting and cultivating the ground. They belong to the Berber race, 
supposed to have been the first inhabitants of this part of the continent. 
The Kabyles of Algiers, the Tuaricks and Tibboos of the Great 
Desert, and part of the inhabitants of Nubia, all appear to be the same 
people. There are also numbers of Jews in Barbary, who are much 
oppressed, and heavily taxed ; but, being allowed to engage in trade, olten 
become wealthy. Besides these races, there are many negroes, brought 
originally from Soudan, who in Morocco form the chief part of the 
military force of the empire. 


7. Extent and Population of the Barbary States. 


Square Miles. 


Morocco . 190,000 

Algiers. 90.000 

Tunis. 50.000 

Tripoli. 100,000 

Beled el Jerid. 140,000 


Population. Pop. to Sq . M. 

6,000,000 

31 

1,500,000 

16 

1,000,000 

20 

600,000 

12 

900,000 

6 


Total, 570,000 


10,000,000 


19* 



View of the Pl'din of Morocco, and the Atlas Mountains. 

MOROCCO. 


8. Morocco is the most important of the Barbary powers. 
It includes the kingdoms of Morocco and Fez; and has also 
a nominal control over those of Suse and Tafilelt. 

9. This state is, at present, much less flourishing than formerly. 

&c. 7. Which is the largest and most populous state in Barbary ? 

The next in extent ? In population ? 8. W hat is Morocco ? 9. What 

























302 DESCRIPTIVE GEOGRAPHY. 

The acts of its government are calculated to discourage enterprise, 
agriculture, and every branch of useful industry; and its commerce, 
once considerable, is now almost destroyed. The only important man¬ 
ufacture is that of Morocco leather, which is superior to any made 
elsewhere. 

10. The city of Morocco, the capital, is situated in a fertile, thickly- 
wooded plain, near the foot of the Atlas Mountains. It is enclosed by 
a wall, and is surrounded by numerous gardens. Fez was, for a long 
time, the most splendid city of western Africa. It is now much decay¬ 
ed, and a great portion of it is in ruins. 

11. Mequinez is sometimes the residence of the emperor. Its in¬ 
habitants are more civilized and humane than those of any other city 
of Morocco. Mogadore is the chief sea-port. Rabat is one of the 
most important towns on the coast. Sallee, almost adjoining it, was 
long noted for its piracies, but is now nearly deserted. 


Map No. 14.— What bounds Morocco on the north? M.-Sa.— 
South? G.-Dt. —East? As., B.-Jd., G.-Dt. — What strait separates 
it from Spain? Gr. — What islands lie west of Morocco? Ma., Cy. 
— What mountains extend through Morocco? As. — Which is the 
principal peak ? M.-Mn. — How high is it? What is the population 
of Morocco ? Fez ? Mequinez ? Rabat ? Mogadore ? Santa Cruz ? 
How far is it from Morocco to Florida ? 

- 193 -- 

ALGIERS. 

1. Algiers occupies the territory of the ancient Numidia. 
The people of this state were the most enterprising and 
daring pirates in Barbary, and formerly maintained a naval 
force which rendered the name of Algerines a terror to the 
people of southern Europe. It was conquered by France in 
1830, and is now held as a colonial territory. 

2. The city of Algiers is strongly fortified. It has a good harbour, 
and carries on a considerable trade. It is now a half French and half 
Moorish town. The invading army captured in this city 10 million 
dollars in money, besides an ample supply of ships, stores, and ammu¬ 
nition. 

3. Constantine, Mascara, and Tlemsen, are the most important towns 
in the interior. Oran in the west and Bona in the eastern part of the 
territory, are the most considerable sea-ports ; the latter is the seat of 


is said of its condition? 10. Describe the city of Morocco. Fez. 
11. Mequinez, and the other towns. 

Algiers. Q. — 1. What does Algiers occupy ? What is said of the 
people ? 2. Describe the city of Algiers. 3. Constantine. 4. What 






BARBARY STATES. 30# 

the noted coral fishery which yields to the amount of 300,000 or 
400,000 dollars annually. 

TUNIS. 

4. Tunis is the most fertile and best cultivated of the 
Barbary States, and the people are at the same time the most 
civilized and industrious in this quarter. 

5. Of the products of the country, grain, dates, olive-oil, and wool, 
are exported to some extent. There is a considerable traffic also carried* 
on with interior Africa. 

6. The city of Tunis is the largest and most flourishing place in 
Barbary, and being no longer engaged in piracy, has applied itself to 
manufactures and commerce; of the former, silk stuffs and velvets are 
the most considerable. Kairwan, Monaster, and Cubes, are important 
towns. 

TRIPOLI. 

7. Tripoli is the most eastern, and is also the least fer¬ 
tile and populous part of Barbary. Its sovereign is more 
friendly to Christians, and has shown a greater desire to 
introduce the improvements of civilized life into his dominions, 
than any other prince in this part of the world. 

8. The territory of Tripoli is nearly all a desert, but contains some 
fertile districts along the sea-coast, in which agriculture is actively 
pursued. An extensive commerce by means of caravans is carried on 
with the countries of interior Africa. Fezzan, the great emporium of 
the caravan trade, is tributary to this state. Barca and Augela, also, 
belong to it. 

9. Tripoli, the capital, has a good harbour, and carries on a consider¬ 
able commerce; the streets are narrow, with low mean houses; but the 
palace of the Dey and some of the mosques are handsome structures. 
Mesurata is, next to the capital, the most important town. 

BARCA. 

10. Barca, the ancient Libya, is separated from Tripoli 
by an extensive desert. It was in ancient times noted for its 
productiveness, but hardly any part of its soil is now culti¬ 
vated. The inhabitants are chiefly Arabs, who wander about 
the country with their flocks and herds. 

11. The ruins of ancient cities are numerous and interesting ; of 


is said of Tunis ? 5. The products ? 6. Describe the city of Tunis. 

7. What is said of Tripoli ? 8. The territory ? Commerce ? 9. De¬ 
scribe the capital. 10. What is said of Barca ? 11. Ruins, &c. ? 



304 


DESCRIPTIVE GEOGRAPHY 



Tombs of Cyrene. 


these, Cyrene, with its Necropolis, or city of the tombs, is the most 
striking. Derne and Bengazi are the only places that can be called 
towns. The first was" captured with great gallantry by General Eaton, 
an American, in 1805. 


Map No. 14. — By what is Algiers, bounded on the north ? M.-Sa. 
— South? B.-Jd. — East? Ts. — West? Mo. — What mountains 
are in the south? As. — How long are they? What is the popula¬ 
tion of Algiers ? Constantine ? Bona ? Oran ? What bounds Tunis 
on the north? M.-Sa. — South? B.-Jd.—East? M.-Sa., Ti.— 
West? As. — What cape on the north? Ba. — What lake in the 
south? Lh. — What is the population of Tunis ? Kairwan ? What 
bounds Tripoli on the north? M.-Sa. — South? G.-Dt. — West? 
Ts., B.-Jd.— What gulf separates Tripoli from Barca? Sa. — What 
is the population of Tripoli ? What bounds Barca on the north ? 
M.-Sa. — South ? L.-Dt. —East? Et. —West? G.-Sa. 

- 194 - 

BELED EL JERID. 

1. The Beled el Jerid, or Land of Dates, stretches along 
the northern edge of the Great Desert, from the Atlas Moun¬ 
tains on the west, to the frontiers of Tripoli on the east. 

2. The soil, though dry and arid, produces dates in great abundance, 
which form the chief food of the inhabitants. This region comprises 
several petty states, which are peopled by various tribes of Berbers and 
Arabs. 


Beled el Jerid. Q.— 1. What is said of the Beled el Jerid ? 2. Soil ? 


































THE GREAT AFRICAN DESERT. 


305 

3. Nearly all the towns are surrounded by walls, and are inhabited 
some by two and others by three different tribes. They are in con¬ 
sequence divided into corresponding sections. FurioOs contests often 
occur between the tribes in these towns, in which event the gates con¬ 
necting the different quarters are closed, until peace is restored. 
Eghwaat, Tuggurt, and Gadames, are the principal towns. 



THE GREAT DESERT. 

4. The Great Desert stretches with but little interruption 
from the Atlantic ocean to the river Nile. It is composed 
of vast sandy plains, swept by hot winds and parched by a 
burning sun. 

5. The Desert is here and there diversified with watered 
and fertile spots, called oases; of these, Fezzan, Tibesty, 
Bilmah, Agdass, and Tuat, appear to be the principal. That 
part of the Great Desert extending from Fezzan to the Atlan¬ 
tic ocean, is called by the Arabs the Sahara, while the east¬ 
ern and smaller section is most usually termed the Libyan 
Desert. 

6. Fezzan is the largest of the oases, and is tributary to Tripoli. 
Its people, reckoned at 70,000, possess but little energy of character, 
and are imperfectly acquainted with the arts. It is principally impor¬ 
tant as the centre of the caravan trade. Mourzuk, the capital, is a 
small mud-walled town. 

States, &c. ? 3. Towns ? 4. Describe the Great Desert. 5. How is 

it diversified ? What is the Sahara, &c. ? 6. Describe Fezzan. 7. 

20 










306 


DESCRIPTIVE GEOGRAPHY 


7. The central part of the Desert is occupied by the Tibboos and 
the Tuaricks. The former are as black as negroes, but of a different 
aspect. Bilmah appears to be their principal district. The Tuaricks 
are a tall handsome race, with bright sparkling eyes and complexions, 
but little darker than southern Europeans. Agdass and Timbuctoo 
are said to be in their possession. 

8. In crossing the Great Desert, travellers are often plundered by the 
barbarous inhabitants; their lives are also endangered by the sand 
blown up by tempests, which fills and darkens the ah - , and threatens to 
suffocate and overwhelm them. The occasional failures of water at 
the usual stopping-places, is likewise often attended with fatal con¬ 
sequences; from the latter cause in the year 1805, a caravan of 1,800 
camels, and 2,000 men, perished with thirst. 

9. On the sea-coast of the desert are various wandering and preda¬ 
tor}' tribes, who often meet with a rieh booty in the vessels shipwrecked 
on their shores, and which are always plundered with the greatest 
avidity. In different parts of the desert, there are mines of roek salt ; 
the extensive demand for which in Soudan eauses the surface of this 
dreary region to be often enlivened by the passage of numerous cara¬ 
vans. 


Map No. 14. — How is the Beled el Jerid bounded? How is the 
Great Desert bounded ? What tribes are in the centre ? Ts„ Ts. — 
On the west ? Ms., Ws., Ts., Bs. — What salt-mines are in the Great 
Desert? Ty., Tt., An.— What oases are in the Great Desert? Fn., 
Ty., Bh., As., Tt, Aa., Sh., E.-Dl., E.-Kh. — What country in the 
south ? Lr. — How long and wide is the Great Desert ? What capes 
are on the coast ? Br., Bo. — How far is it to Mexico ? To Cuba ? 

- 195 - 

THE REGION OF THE NILE. 

1. The Region of the Nile comprehends all that part 
of Africa watered by the river Nile and its tributaries. It 
comprises Egypt, Nubia, Abyssinia, Kordofan, Darfur, 
Fertit, &c. 

EGYPT. 

2. Egypt is celebrated for its great antiquity, and the early 
civilization of its inhabitants. Its mighty pyramids, splendid 
obelisks, and the ruins of its ancient cities, all attest its former 
magnificence. 

Tibboos. Tuaricks. 8. What is said of travellers ? 9. Of the sea- 

coast ? 

The Region of the Nile. Q.— 1. What does the Region of the Nile 
comprehend ? 2. What is said of Egypt ? 3. Of its present ruler ? 






EGYPT 


307 



3. It was, until lately, a Turkish province ; but the present 
ruler has rendered himself independent of his former master ; 
and is introducing into Egypt the arts, learning, and civiliza¬ 
tion of European nations. The great mass of the people are, 
however, much oppressed by heavy exactions; and are fre¬ 
quently torn from their families, and compelled to serve in 
the armies or fleets of their military ruler. 

4. The soil of Egypt is naturally barren, and owes all its fertility to 
the overflowing of the river Nile, which enriches the country instead 
of rain. Agriculture is diligently pursued; and in many parts of the 
country three crops of some products are raised, annually. Indian- 
corn, rice, w heat, sugar-cane, indigo, tobacco, cotton, &c., are the chief 
productions. 

5. The inhabitants are of various races. The Arabs arc the most 
numerous. The Turks are the ruling people; and the Copts are the 
descendants of the ancient Egyptians. There are also a number of 
Jews, and a few Europeans. The latter are chiefly in the service of 
the government. 

6. The foreign possessions of Egypt are Nubia and Kordofan in 
Africa ; Syria, Mecca, Yemen, and the Island of Cyprus, in Asia, with 
the Island of Candia in Europe. The population of this new empire 
is, probably, not less than 8 millions. 

7. Egypt abounds in remarkable antiquities. The pyramids are 
amongst the most astonishing monuments of human labour. The 


The people ? 4. The soil ? Agriculture ? Products ? 5. The inhab¬ 
itants ? 6. Foreign possessions ? 7. In what docs Egypt abound ? 

















DESCRIPTIVE GEOGRAPHY 


308 

largest is 500 feet high, and its base covers 11 acres of ground. An¬ 
cient historians state that 100,000 men were employed in this work for 
20 years. 

8. At Thebes, in Upper Egypt, are remains whiqh are calculated to 
fill the beholder with astonishment. Almost the whole extent of eight 
miles along the river is covered with magnificent portals, decorated 
with sculpture, forests of columns, and long avenues of colossal statues. 



Cairo. 


9. Cairo, the capital of Egypt, is the most populous city in Africa; 
and carries on a considerable trade with the interior of the continent 
by caravans. This place is beginning to imbibe some of the elements 
of European civilization. A scientific society, and various schools have 
been lately established. Hotels are kept on the plan of those in Paris ; 
and steam-boats navigate the Nile from Alexandria to some distance 
above Cairo. 

10. Alexandria was one of the most celebrated cities of ancient times; 
and long the seat of the arts and sciences. After being for ages in a 
state of decay, it is at length reviving. It is now the chief sea-port 
and naval station of Egypt. Vessels of nearly every European nation 
are to, be found in its harbour ; and steam-boats run to all the principal 
ports and islands in the Mediterranean. Damictta and Rosetta are the 
chief towns in Lower, and Siout and Girge in Upper Egypt. Suez and 
Cosseir, on the Red Sea, possess some trade. 


Map No. 14. — What bounds Egypt on the north ? M.-Sa. — South ? 
Na..—East? R.-Sa. — West? G.-Dt. — What river flows through 
Egypt ? Ne. — How long is it ? What isthmus connects Egypt with 
Arabia? Sz. — How wide is it? What is the country at the mouth 
of the Nile called? Da. — What is a Delta? (See page 74.) What 
is the population of Cairo ? Damietta ? Alexandria ? Siout ? Rosetta ? 
Cosseir ? Suez ? What three oases are included in Egypt ? Sh., E.-Dl., 
E.-Kh. — What do you observe on the west side of the Nile near 
Cairo? Ps. — What ruins arc in the south part of Egypt? Ts. 


8. Describe Thebes. 9. Cairo ? 10. Alexandria. Damietta, &c. 








309 


NUBIA, ABYSSINIA. 

-19G- 

NUBIA. 

1. Nuria is an extensive region, chiefly composed of rocky 
and sandy deserts. The climate, though hot, is dry, and 
generally healthful. 

2. Nearly all the productive soil which Nubia possesses is 
a narrow strip on both sides of the Nile: this being watered 
from the river, by means of wheels worked by oxen, pro¬ 
duces dhourra, a coarse kind of grain, barley, cotton, tobacco, 
and indigo. 

3. The inhabitants of the towns and villages are similar to the Ber¬ 
bers of Mount Atlas; those of the desert are of Arab origin, and re¬ 
semble the same race in other quarters. The latter were notorious for 
their robberies, but they are now restrained from that practice by the 
authority of the Pacha of Egypt. 

4. The remains of ancient temples are common in Nubia. These 
are either under ground or cut out of the solid rock*" That of Ebsam- 
bul is the most magnificent, and rivals the most splendid of the Egyp¬ 
tian monuments. 

5. New Dongola, the capital of Nubia, once an important town, is 
now much decayed. Sennaar, the capital of the kingdom of the same 
name, formerly said to have contained 100,000 inhabitants, is almost 
deserted and in ruins. Suakem is a small port on the Red Sea, at 
which Mahomedan pilgrims from the interior take passage for Mecca. 

6. Darfur possesses a dry and sandy soil, but the influence of the 
tropical rains causes it to produce, to some extent, wheat and millet. 
Camels, horses, and cattle, abound. Bergoo, or W aday^ lying west¬ 
ward from Darfur, is an extensive kingdom. It is imperfectly known, 
but is reported to be well peopled. 

7. Kordofan was sometime since conquered by the Pacha of Egypt. 
Its soldiers, like those of Bornou, wear armour in time of war. Fertit 
and Donga are known only by report: the former is said to abound in 
copper. The Shjlluks are a nation of negroes, of unusual size and 
strength. 

ABYSSINIA. 

8. Abyssinia, the ancient Ethiopia, is a country of rug¬ 
ged mountains, intersected by deep and fertile valleys. 
Though situated in the torrid zone, the climate is generally 
temperate and pleasant. Wheat, barley, and teff, a very 


Nubia.Q. — 1. What is Nubia? 2. What is said of the soil? 3. 
The inhabitants ? 4. The remains of ancient temples ? 5. Describe 
Dongola. 6. Darfur. 7. Kordofan. 8. Abyssinia. 9. What is said 





310 


DESCRIPTIVE GEOGRAPHY 


small grain, are the chief products; and salt is the principal 
mineral. 

9. The people are in some respects superior to the nations around 
them, and have some knowledge of the arts; yet their manners are 
extremely cruel and licentious. At their feasts, they eat raw flesh -eut 
from the animal while yet warm. Intoxication is frequent, a plurality 
of wives is common, and great depravity of manners prevails. 

10. The religion of Abyssinia is a corrupt kind of Christianity, in¬ 
termixed with Jewish rites and ceremonies. Circumcision is practised. 
Baptism and the Lord’s Supper are administered, and Saturday and 
Sunday are both observed as a sabbath. The churches are numerous, 
and are much adorned with paintings. Learning is extremely limited, 
being confined to the priests, and is connected principally with their 
system of religion. 

11. This country was formerly under one government, but now com^ 
prises three divisions—Tigre, Amhara, and Shoa and Efat. Some of 
the provinces have been conquered by the Galla, a most ferocious and 
brutal people, who in their incursions spare neither age nor sex. They 
perform immense marches, swim rivers, and endure incredible fatigue. 

12. Gondar, the capital of Amhara, is the largest city in Abyssinia, 
and is said to be eight or ten miles in circuit. Antalo and Adowa are 
the other principal towns. Axum, the ancient capital of Abyssinia, is 
now in ruins, but is remarkable for its antiquities. Massuah, a port 
belonging to Egypt, is the only place through which the trifling foreign 
trade of this country is carried on. 


Map No. 14. — How is Nubia bounded? What river is in Nubia? 
Ne. — What desert? Nn.— What is the population of Suakem ? 
Shendy ? Merawe ? Old Dongola ? New Dongola ? Derr ? What 

bounds Abyssinia on the north ? Na. — South ? Ea. Al._East ? 

R.-Sa. — West? Ss. — What lake in the centre? Da. —What 
river flows from it? Ni. — What is the population of Gondar? 
Antalo ? Massuah ? Axum ? What countries lie west of the Nile ? 
Kn., Dr., Bo. — South of Darfur ? Ft., Da. — What river flows through 
Bergoo ? Md. — The capitals of these countries ? It., Ce., Wa. — 
The population of Cobbe ? 


- 197- 

WESTERN AFRICA. 

1. This region extends from the Great Desert to the Tropic 
of Capricorn. Its chief divisions are Senegambia, and Upper 
and Lower Guinea. A highly productive soil, a rich iuxu- 

of the people? 10. Religion? 11. Government? Describe the Galla. 
12. Gondar and the other towns. 






WESTERN AFRICA 


311 



riance of vegetation, and a great variety and abundance ot 
animals, distinguish this part of the continent. 

2. The inhabitants are rude, ignorant, and barbarous. Their chiefs 
are cruel and despotic, and in some parts are regarded by their subjects 
as a sacred race. Mahomedanisrn is the religion of many tribes; but 
Fetechism, or the worship of snakes, lizards, and other disgusting objects, 
prevails to a great extent. 

3. The slave-trade has been carried on by Europeans from this region 
to a greater extent than from any other part of Africa; and, notwith¬ 
standing the exertions made to suppress it, numbers of slaves are still 
carried off. 

SENEGAMBIA. 

4. Senegambia stretches from the Great Desert to the 
colony of Liberia. It contains a number of different states, 
of which Foota Jallon, Bambouk, and Soolimana, all in the 
interior, appear to be the principal. 

5. The inhabitants of Foota Jallon belong to the Foulah nation, who 
are widely dispersed over Western and Central Africa. They are the 
most civilized people of this region, and have dark olive complexions, 
with high and often pleasing features. The JalofFs and Mandingoos arc 
also important races, but differ from the Foulahs in tlieir complexion 
and general appearance. 

6. The French, English, and Portuguese, have settlements establish¬ 
ed on various parts of the coast, for the purpose of trading with the 
natives for slaves, ivory, gum-arabic, and gold-dust. 

Western Africa. Q. — 1. Describe this region. 2. The inhabitants. 
Religion. 3. Slave-trade. 4. What is said of Senegambia ? 5. The 

Foulahs ? Jaloffs, &c. ? 6. The French, &c. ? 












312 


DESCRIPTIVE GEOGRAPHY 


SIERRA LEONE. 

7. The British Colony of Sierra Leone'was established in 
1787, for the purpose of introducing the Christian religion 
and civilization into Africa. 

8. The bulk of the inhabitants are liberated slaves, taken from cap¬ 
tured slave-ships. The population of the colony is about 30,000, of 
whom not more than 100 are whites; the extreme unhealthiness of the 
climate rendering it almost impossible for them to reside here with 
safety. Freetown is the capital of Sierra Leone-, besides which there 
are 8 or 10 villages. 

LIBERIA. 

9. Liberia, now the most interesting country in Africa, is 
an American colony, founded in 1821, by the American 
Colonization Society, as a place of refuge for the free negroes 
and emancipated slaves of the United States. 

10. Many have emigrated thither, and the colony is in a flourishing 
condition. Several of the neighbouring tribes have put themselves 
under its protection, and are endeavouring to imitate its customs and 
learn its arts. The slave-trade has been abolished within the limits of 
Liberia. Several vessels, built at Monrovia, trade along the coast with 
the native tribes, for gold, ivory, palm-oil, &c., in exchange for Ameri¬ 
can and European manufactures. 

11. The first settled and chief town is Monrovia; it contains up¬ 
wards of 500 houses, including churches, schools, a public library, &c. 
There are ten other towns and villages which are situated at various 
points on the coast, from the St. Paul’s river to Cape Palmas. The 
territory of Liberia extends along the sea-shore about 300 miles : it 
contains 5,000 colonists, and 20,000 natives. 

Map No. 14. — How is Senegambia bounded ? What are the princi¬ 
pal rivers ? SI., Ga., Nr., R.-Ge. — How long are the three first ? What 
cape on the west ? Ve. — On the south ? Ps. — What French settle¬ 
ment on the Senegal river ? St.-Ls. — British settlement on the Gam¬ 
bia ? Bt. — What settlement on the Rio Grande? Pe. — What 
islands lie west of Cape Verde ? C.-Ve. — What British Colony in the 
south ? S.-Le. 

Map No. 15. — What are the principal rivers of Liberia ? How long 
is the St. Paul’s river ? Which is the most northern cape? Mt.— 
Southern? Ps.—There are eleven colonial towns—which are they ? 
Native towns ? What colony at Cape Palmas? Md. — At the St. 
John’s river ? Pa. 

Sierra Leone. Q. — 7. Describe Sierra Leone. 8. What is said of 
the inhabitants? 9. Describe Liberia. 10. What is said of the colo¬ 
ny? The neighbouring tribes? The slave-trade? 11. The chief 
towns, &c. ? How far does the territory extend ? 




UPPER GUINEA 


313 


- 198 - 

UPPER GUINEA. 

1. Upper Guinea extends from Senegambia to Biafra. 
The coast is divided by navigators into the Grain, Ivory, 
Gold, and Slave Coasts: these are so named from the chief 
objects of trade at the respective places. 

2. Besides part of the colony of Liberia, this region con¬ 
tains the native kingdoms of Ashantee, Dahomey, Benin, &c. 
also some English, Dutch, and Danish settlements. 

3. The kingdom of Ashantee is situated to the north of the Gold 
Coast, and is the most important native state in Western Africa. The 
inhabitants possess some of the comforts of civilization, but live not¬ 
withstanding, in a state of shocking barbarity. 

4. The horrid custom of sacrificing human beings at the decease of 
the sovereign, or any of the royal family, prevails to a great extent, 
and three thousand victims are said to have been immolated on the 
grave of the king’s mother, on one occasion only. 

The houses in Coomassie, the capital, are neat and well-built. The 
streets are all named, and are each under the charge of a captain. 

5. The Gold Coast contains a number of European settlements or 
factories, founded for the purpose of trading with the natives for gold 
dust, the most valuable product of the country. Cape Coast Castle is 
the principal of the British factories, Elmina of the Dutch, and Chris- 
tiansburg of the Danes ; these are all fortified and have small garrisons. 

6. Dahomey, on the Slave Coast, is a fertile country : it is inhabited 
by a warlike and ferocious people, whose manners and customs are 
even more cruel and barbarous than those of the Ashantees. Abomey is 
the capital. 

Benin is but little known : the king is not only absolute, but is con¬ 
sidered a god in the eyes of his subjects, and all crimes against him 
are punished both as treason and impiety. 

LOWER GUINEA. 

7. The principal countries comprised in Lower Guinea, 
are Loango, Congo, Angola, and Benguela. The sea-coast 
of these countries is known to navigators by the name of 
the Coast of Angola, or simply the Coast. 

8. Biafra, Calbongas, and Gaboon, lying south of the Niger river, 
are reported to be fertile and populous countries, but are seldom visited. 


Upper Guinea. Q. — 1. Describe Upper Guinea. 2. Kingdoms, &c. 
3. Ashantee. 4. What is said of human sacrifices ? Coomassie ? 
5. The Gold Coast ? 6. Dahomey ? Benin ? 7. Describe Lower 



314 


DESCRIPTIVE GEOGRAPHY. 


Loango possesses a fine climate and a fertile soil; the slave trade is 
carried on to some extent from its chief ports, Cabenda and Loango. 

9. Congo, Angola, Benguela, and Matemba, are situated to the 
southward of the river Congo. The whole region is said to be fertile, 
though in some parts but thinly peopled. These territories were dis¬ 
covered by the Portuguese in 1487, and ever since that time have been 
under their control; but their authority in the interior is supposed to be 
only nominal. 

10. Cassange and Moolooa are countries reported to be far inland. 
The inhabitants of the latter are more civilized and industrious than 
those on the coast, yet the atrocious custom of human sacrifice pre¬ 
vails. St. Salvador is the principal town of Congo. St. Paul de Loando 
and St. Felipe de Benguela, aru 4 the chief sea-ports: from these the 
slave-trade is carried on to some extent. 

11. The Cimbebas Country extends five hundred miles southward 
from Benguela. The whole coast appears to be a desert, but the 
interior of the country is well fitted for pasturage. The inhabitants 
are a simple and inoffensive race; they are clothed in ox-hides and 
possess large herds of cattle. 

Map No. 14. — What bounds Upper Guinea on the north ? Sn.— 
South ? G.-Ga. — East ? L.-Ga. — West ? Sa., La. — What mountains 
on the north ? Kg. — What is the population of Coomassie ? Abomey? 
Benin ? How is Lower Guinea bounded ? Which are its rivers ? Co., 
Az., Ca., Be. — Mountains? Cl.— What islands in the Gulf of 
Guinea ? F.-Po., Ps., S.-Ts., An. — To what power do the three last 

belong ? What river divides Upper from Lower Guinea ? Nr.— What 
is the population of Loango ? St. Salvador ? St. Paul de Loando ? 
How far is it from Guinea to Brazil ? From Angola to Brazil ? 

- 199 - 

SOUTHERN AFRICA. 

1. Southern Africa comprises nearly all that part of 
the continent which lies south of the tropic of Capricorn. Its 
subdivisions are the Cape Colony, Caffraria, the country of 
the Hottentots, and the country of the Boshuanas. 

2. The Cape Colony was settled by the Dutch in 1615. It was 
twice conquered by Great Britain, and was finally confirmed to that 
power in 1815. 

3. The soil along the sea-coast is, generally, fertile, and productive in 


Guinea. 8. Biafra, Ac. 9. Congo, Ac. 10. Cassange, Ac. 11. 
Cimbebas country. 

Southern Africa. Q. — 1. What does Southern Africa comprise? 2. 
What is said of the Cape Colony? 3. The soil ? Farmers? 4. Cape 






SOUTHERN AFRICA. 


315 


grain, wine, and fruits. Much of the interior country is occupied by 
the great Karroo, a dry plain, destitute, for the most part, of vegetation. 
The farmers of the Colony, called Boors, occupy very extensive farms; 
and raise large herds of cattle. 

4. Cape Town is an important station, being the only place of re¬ 
freshment for vessels between Europe and America on the one side, 
and the East Indies, China, and Australasia, on the other. Graham’s 
Town is the next most important place. 

CAFFRARIA. 

5. Caffraria extends eastward from the Cape Colony to St. Lucia 
River. The inhabitants, called CafFres, are divided into several tribes. 
They are an athletic vigorous people, of a deep-brown colour, and with 
frizzled, though not woolly hair. 

6. War, hunting, and tending their cattle, of which they have large 
herds, are the employment of the men. The women cultivate the soil, 
build the huts, cut wood, and make baskets of reeds so closely woven 
as to hold milk. 

7. The missionaries had made a favourable impression on some of 
the CafFres ; but the recent war with the British colonists has destroyed, 
in a great measure, the good efFects of these labours, and forced the 
missionaries to leave the country. 



Bushman disguised as an Ostrich. 


8. Country of the Hottentots. —This tract of country is inhab¬ 
ited by the Damaras, Namaquas, Corannas, Griquas, and other 
tribes/all known by the general name of Hottentots. They are a 

Town? 5. Describe Caffraria. The inhabitants. 6. Their employ¬ 
ments. 7. Missionaries. 8. What is said of the country of the Hot- 







DESCRIPTIVE GEOGRAPHY. 


316 

quiet, inoffensive, ignorant race ; but are very filthy in their habits, 
and uncommonly ugly in person. Some of them have been taught by 
the missionaries to cultivate the ground, raise cattle, and work at a 
few of the most common trades. 

9. The Bushmen, or Wild Hottentots, go almost naked, and reside in 
holes made in the ground, or clefts in the rocks. They use poisoned 
arrows in war, or in destroying wild beasts. They display some in¬ 
genuity in disguising themselves in imitation of the ostrich, and thus 
are enabled to approach that shy animal sufficiently near to destroy it. 



10. Country of the Boshuanas.— The Boshuanas appear to be of 
the same race as the Caffres; but have made more progress in industry 
and the arts. They dwell in towns of some magnitude ; and cultivate 
the ground, raising millet, beans, water-melons, &c. 

They have large herds of cattle, the robbing of which from each 
other is the cause of frequent wars among the different tribes. Lat- 
takoo, Mashow, and Kurreechane, are their chief towns. 

Map No. 14. — What countries lie south of the Tropic of Capricorn ? 
Hs., Bs., C.-Cy., Ca. — What is the most southern cape ? Ls. — What 
other cape is there ? G.-He. — What rivers in this region ? Oe., Ke., 
G.-Ki., S.-La., Me. — How long is the first? What mountains ? Sw. 

— How high are they? What desert extends north-west from the 
Boshuana country ? Ch. This is also called the Karri-Harri Desert. 

— How far is it from the Cape Colony to the Swan River Colony ? 
What is the population of Kurreechane ? Mashow ? Lattakoo ? 
Cape Town ? Graham’s Town ? 

- 200 - 

EASTERN AFRICA. 

1. Eastern Africa comprises a vast extent of coast, 
reaching from Caffraria to Abyssinia, 3000 miles in length. 

ten tots ? 9. The Bushmen ? 10. Country of the Boshuanas ? Towns, 
&c. ? Herds of cattle ? 

Eastern Africa. Q. — I. What does Eastern Africa comprise ? 2. 







EASTERN AFRICA 


317 


Scarcely any part of the world is so imperfectly known, as 
the interior of this region, or opposes so many obstacles to 
the investigations of the traveller. 

2. The states of this territory are generally occupied by 
dark brown or black nations, who, however, bear but little re¬ 
semblance to negroes except in colour. In some of them, the 
inhabitants are not entirely destitute of arts and industry. 

3. The Country of the Somaulies extends from Abyssinia to Cape 
Gardafui. The people are an active industrious race, who trade with 
the Arabs, Hindoos, and the interior tribes. The country is hilly and 
beautiful, and may be considered as the native region of incense, m}'rrh, 
and sweet-smelling gums. 

4. Berbora and Adel are the chief states on the coast, of which the 
principal towns are Berbora and Zeyla; Hurrur, in the interior, is the 
residence of the Sultan of the Somaulies. The inland country is scarcely 
known, but appears to be occupied by the savage Galla, and by the king¬ 
dom of Gingiro, whose inhabitants are equally barbarous. 

5. Ajan, or Azania, stretching southward from Cape Gardufui, is 
sandy, hilly, and, except in the northern parts, barren. The want of 
harbours, aud the fierce character of the inhabitants, have prevented it 
from being much frequented by traders. 

6. Zanguebar extends from Cape Bassas to Cape Delgado. It con¬ 
tains several states, of which Magadoxa, Mombas, and Quiloa, appear to 
be the chief: the latter is under the control of the Arabs of Muscat. 
The city of Melinda, once a handsome and important place, is now in 
ruins, having been, with the whole of its territory, desolated by the 
savage Galla. 

7. The commerce of this region is carried on principally by the Arabs 
of Muscat, who navigate vessels called dows, the planks of which, instead 
of being fastened in the usual manner, are sewed together. The ports 
of Mombas, Lamoo, and Brava, are sometimes visited by American ves¬ 
sels. 

8. The Portuguese Possessions commence at Cape Delgado ; the 
authority of this nation was once very extensive and firmly fixed, but it 
is now little more than nominal. Mozambique, the residence of the 
Governor General, Quilimane at the mouth of the Zambeze river, and 

, Sofala and Inhambane, are the chief stations on the coast; those in the 
interior are Sena, Tcte, and Manica. The trade, now greatly reduced, 
is chiefly in slaves, gold, and ivory. 

9. Monomotafa, or Motapa, a once powerful empire, is now destroyed ; 
its territory is mostly occupied by the Maravis, a warlike, plundering 


What is said of its states ? 3. Somaulies ? 4. Berbora and Adel ? 

5. Ajan ? 6. Zanguebar ? 7. Commerce ? 8. What is said of the 

Portuguese possessions ? 9. Monomotapa ? 10. The Bororas, ^fc. 

Cazembe ? 



318 


DESCRIPTIVE GEOGRAPHY. 


tribe, whose chief, called the Changamera, resides at Zimbao, the ancient 
capital. Farther inland is the country of the Movizas, an industrious 
and peaceable race. 

10. The Bororas and Makooas are populous tribes in the interior: 
the latter are reported to be cannibals. 

Cazembe, a kingdom situated in the centre of the continent, is fertile 
and populous, and subject to the wjll of a despot; it yields in abundance 
iron and copper, and possesses a considerable trade in slaves and ivory. 

Map No. 14. — What gulf separates Berbora from Arabia? An.— 
What capes on the coast of Ajan ? Gi., Oi., Bs. — How far is it from 
Ajan to Ceylon ? What country of Zanguebar lies north of the Equator ? 
Ma. — Which lie south ? Ma., Ms., Qa. — How far from Zanguebar 
to Sumatra? What rivers are in Zanguebar? We., Oe. — In Mo¬ 
zambique ? Ze., Me. — What mountains ? La. — Capes ? Do., Cs. — 
What channel separates Mozambique from Madagascar ? Me. 


201 



CENTRAL AFRICA. 

1. Central Africa comprises all the interior of the 
continent lying south of the Great Desert. Its northern di¬ 
vision, Soudan, or Nigritia, has been partially explored by 
Europeans; but the southern, called Ethiopia, has never 
been visited by white men, and is, consequently, unknown. 

2. The principal river of this-region, the Niger, (called by the natives 

Central Africa. Q. — 1. Describe Central Africa. Northern division. 




























CENTRAL AFRICA 


319 

Joliba, or Quorra) was long a subject of intense interest to the civilized 
world, in consequence of the various opinions entertained concerning it. 
Mr. Park, in 1795, determined the upper part of its course; and the 
lower part, and termination in the Gulf of Guinea, were ascertained by 
the brothers Landers, in 1830. It was ascended, a few years since, by 
two steam-boats, for a distance of 400 miles. 

3. Soudan is, in most parts, fertile and populous; and the 
inhabitants generally excel those of the coast in industry and 
intelligence. It contains a great number of states, various in 
extent and character. 

4. Kaarta, the most western state in Soudan, is a considerable king¬ 
dom, of moderate fertility ; the capital of which is Kemmoo. Boure 
and Wassela on the Niger, and Kong extending along the mountains 
of the same name, are all imperfectly known. The first abounds in 
gold. Beeroo and Massina on the western, and Baedoo on the east side 
of the Niger, are countries with which the civilized world is acquainted 
onlj 7 by name. Walet, the capital of Beeroo, is reported to carry on a 
great trade in salt. 

5. Bambarra was, until lately, the most important state in this quar¬ 
ter ; but it is now divided into two distinct kingdoms. Lower Bam¬ 
barra, the last formed of the two, is the most 'powerful state ; and is 
governed by a Foulah, or Fellata chief. Jenne, the capital, is one of 
the most commercial towns in this part of Africa. Sego, the capital of 
Upper or Old Bambarra, is enclosed by a wall. The houses are built 
of clay, and whitewashed. 

6. Timbuctoo is the centre of the trade for Western Soudan. It has 
for a long time excited great attention, from its supposed riches; and 
is the point at which most European travellers have aimed to arrive. 
M. Caillie, who visited it in 1828, has dispelled, in a measure, the 
reputation it enjoyed for wealth and importance. 

7. The Feelatas are the most powerful nation in the interior of 
Africa. They are similar to the Foulahs; but arc mere warlike. They 
have conquered Iloussa, the most civilized country in this quarter; also 
several small states on the Niger. Soceatoo is their capital. Kano and 
Cashna are important cities in Houssa. Zegzeg is a fine fertile district, 
the capital of which is Zaria. 

8. Boussa and Youri are considerable towns on the Niger. The 
former is the capital of Borgoo, a confederacy of stales on the same 
river; and Youri is the place at which Mr. Park lost his life. Nyffe 
and Yarriba are fertile and populous countries; the people of which 
are the most improved and industrious of all the Negro nations. Eyeo, 
the capital of Yarriba, is said to be 15 miles in circuit. 

9. Bornou is one of the most important states of Soudan. A con- 


Southern. 2. What is said of the principal river ? 3. Soudan ? 4. 

Kaarta, &c. ? 5. Bambarra ? 6. Timbuctoo ? 7. The Fellatas ? 8. 

Boussa, &c. ? 9. Bornou? 10. Begharmi? Darkulla? Mandara? 



320 


DESCRIPTIVE GEOGRAPHY. 



siderable trade is carried on across the Great Desert with Tripoli, in 
slaves, ivory, and ostrich feathers. Kanem, lying north of Lake Tchad, 

is a district dependent on Bornou; 
and furnishes to that country its 
bravest and most effective soldiers. 
Bornou is the capital; and Angor- 
nou is the largest town.' 


Horseman of Begharmi. 


10. Begharmi, lying south-east 
of the Lake Tchad, is almost al¬ 
ways at war with Bornou. The 
cavalry of both these nations cover 
themselves, and even their horses, 
with iron armour; and fight with 
long spears. Darkulla is inhab¬ 
ited by a fierce Pagan race, called 
El Fellati, who fight with poi¬ 
soned arrows. Mandara occupies 
a fine fertile valley containing 
several populous towns, of which 
Mora is the chief. 


Map No. 14. — How is Soudan bounded? What are its rivers? 
Nr., Yn. Sy., Ta., Be. — How long is the first? What lakes are in 
Soudan? Td., Fe., De. — How long is the first? What mountains? 
Kg., Mn. — What is the population of Sego? Jenne ? Timbuctoo? 
Soccatoo ? Kano ? Zaria ? Boussa ? Bornou ? Angornou ? 

- 202 - 


AFRICAN ISLANDS. 

1. On both sides of the African continent are to be found 
a number of single islands and groups of islands, belonging 
principally to different European powers; most of them are 
populous, fertile, and productive in a variety of valuable com¬ 
modities. 

2. The Azores or Western Isles have a fine climate and fertile 
soil, which produces abundantly grain, wine, and fruits of various kinds. 
The chief towns are Porto Delgado in St. Michael’s, and Angra, in 
Terceira; the latter is the capital of the whole group. 

3. Madeira is a beautiful, healthful, and fertile island, long celebrated 
for its excellent wines, the trade in which is less important than for¬ 
merly. Funchal is the capital. 

The Canary Islands are noted for their wines, fruits, and Canary 

African Islands, Q.— 1. What is said of the African continent? 2. 
Describe the Azores. 3. Madeira islands. Canary islands. 4. Cape 







AFRICAN ISLANDS. 


321 


birds. These islands contain numerous mountains, of which the most 
celebrated is the Peak of Teneriffe. Santa Cruz, in the island of Tene-‘ 
riffe, is the capital. 

4. The Cape Verde Islands. The climate of these islands is hot and 
unhealthful, and the soil is mostly dry and arid. Many of the inhabitants 
died of famine in 1831, from the effects of a long-continued drought. 

Fogo, one of the islands, contains an active volcano. Salt, goat-skins, 
and some cotton, are the chief articles of trade. The capital is Porto 
Praya. 

5. Ascension Island, now garrisoned by a small military force, was 
long uninhabited and famous for its turtle. St. Helena is a small rocky 
island: it has but one harbour and town, (Jamestown,) and is noted for 
having been the residence of Napoleon Buonaparte for six years: he 
died here in May, 1821. 

6. The Ethiopian Archipelago, situated on the eastern 
side of Africa, comprises Madagascar, the Mascarenha, 
Seychelle, Almirante, Comoro, and some other islands. 

7. Madagascar is the largest of the African Islands. It has a 
healthful climate, a fertile soil, and is said to be rich in minerals. The 
inhabitants consist of Arabs, Malays, and Negroes. Some of these 
cultivate the ground, and are not destitute of arts : others are pirates, and 
commit depredations on the neighbouring islands. 

8. Imerina, or the kingdom of the Ovahs, the most important state 
in this island, was founded by Radama. This prince received Christian 
missionaries, and endeavoured to civilize his subjects by introducing 
among them European arts and sciences. He was poisoned by his 
wife in 1828. Since his death, the kingdom has been the scene of 
anarchy and confusion. Tananarivou is the capital. Bombetok Bay, 
and the other bays and ports, are sometimes Visited by American vessels. 

9. Eastward from Madagascar are the Mascarenha Islands. These 
are Bourbon and Mauritius or the Isle of France : they are both well- 
settled, fertile islands, and produce coffee and sugar to a great extent. 
Bourbon contains a volcano constantly burning, which serves at night 
as a light-house to mariners. 

10. The Seychelle and Almirante Islands are a dependency of 
Mauritius: they produce cotton and cocoa-rtbts. The Comoro Isles are 
mountainous but fertile. The inhabitants have been nearly all extir¬ 
pated by the ravages of the Madagascar pirates; Monfia, Zanzibar, 
arid Pemba, are fertile, well-settled islands, and belong to Muscat. The 
town of Zanzibar, on the island of the same name, contains about 10,000 
inhabitants. Socotra is subject to Keshin in Arabia, and is chiefly 
noted for the superior quality of its aloes. 

Verde islands. 5. Ascension and St. Helena. 6. What does the 
Ethiopian Archipelago comprise? 7. What is said of Madagascar? 
8. Imerina? 9. Describe the Mascarenha Islands. 10. The Sey¬ 
chelle, &c. Comoro. Monfia, &c. Socotra. 

21 





322 DESCRIPTIVE GEOGRAPHY. 

Map No. 14. — Tell the population of the following islands and the 
nation to which they belong : Azores ; Madeira; Canary ; Cape Verde ; 
Ascension; St. Helena ; Mauritius; Bourbon ; Almirante, and Seychelle. 
What is the population of Madagascar ? How long is this island ? 
What is its northern cape ? Ao. — Southern ? S.-My. — How far is 
it from Madagascar to New Holland ? What islands lie between Ma¬ 
dagascar and Mozambique? Co. — What islands belong to Muscat? 
Pa., Zr., Ma. — What island belongs to Keshin? 

- 203 —- 


Inhabitants of Oceanica. 

OCEANICA. 

1. Oceanica comprises the islands lying immediately 
south of Asia, together with the greater part of those in the 
Pacific Ocean, situated between Asia and America. They 
form three great divisions : Malaysia, Australasia, and Poly¬ 
nesia. 

MALAYSIA, 

2. Malaysia derives its name from the Malays, the most 
numerous people in this region. It is also called the East 
India Archipelago; and contains the Islands of Sumatra, 
Java, and Borneo, usually called the Sunda Isles, Together 


Oceanica. Q. — 1. Describe Oceanica. 2. Malaysia. 3. What is 





















MALAYSIA 


323 

with Celebes, the Moluccas, or Spice Islands, the Phillippine, 
and some smaller groups. 

3. The climate of Malaysia is that of the torrid zone. The soil is 
highly prolific, and yields in abundance the most exquisite spices and 
fruits. The clove, nutmeg, mace, cinnamon, and pepper, abound ; also 
sugar, coffee, cotton, rice, tobacco, and indigo. 

4. The commerce is extensive, and is carried on mostly by Eu¬ 
ropeans and Chinese. The latter, in their uncouth vessels, called junks, 
trade in great numbers to the different islands. Tripang, sea-slug, and 
edible birds’-nests, luxuries not in use among Europeans, form import¬ 
ant articles of the traffic with China, where they bear a high price. 



Malays capturing a European Vessel. 


5. The Malays, the prevalent race in this region, are, generally, of 
a deep-yellow complexion. They are chiefly Mahomedans. Many of 
them are pirates; and the most daring attempts are often made by 
them to capture vessels of superior force. A number of Chinese emi¬ 
grants have settled in some of the islands of this region, and are noted 
for their industrious and quiet habits. 

6. Sumatra, the most western of the Sunda Islands, is nearly equal 
in extent to our Middle and Eastern States united. It is divided into 

| several petty native kingdoms ; and is partly under the dominion of 
Holland. Some of the interior tribes are cannibals. Among the Bat- 
tas, the punishment of several crimes, by their laws, is to be eaten alive. 
They also eat the prisoners they take in war. 

7. Java is a fine fertile island, principally under the control of the 
Dutch. The natives are well acquainted with many arts. They carry 
on a lucrative trade with the Chinese, and profess the Hindoo religion. 


said of the climate ? 4. Commerce? 5. What is said of the Malays? 





























324 


DESCRIPTIVE GEOGRAPHY 


8. Batavia, the capital of Java, and of the Dutch possessions in this 
quarter, is less important than formerly ; but still carries on an exten¬ 
sive commerce. Cheribon, Samarang, and Sourabaya, are the other 
most important towns. Eastward from Java are the Islands of Bally, 
Sumbawa, Floris, and Timor. The last is held jointly by the Dutch 
and Portuguese. 

9. Borneo is one of the largest islands in the world. Its area is 
about equal to that of the Middie and Southern States united. The 
interior is occupied by a number of rude, ferocious tribes, between 
whom and the people of the coast there is constant war. Among the 
Dyaks, one of the inland tribes, an individual cannot obtain a wife, or 
aspire to the distinction of manhood, until he can show the head of, at 
least, one enemy, as a proof of his prowess. Gold and diamonds are 
found in considerable quantities. The principal trade is at Benjarmassin. 

10. Immediately eastward of-Borneo are the Sooloo Islands. The 
inhabitants, all pirates, are the Algerines of the eastern seas. Celebes 
is a large fertile island. The inhabitants, called Macassars, and Bugis, 
are madly devoted to games of chance. The women mingle freely in 
all the affairs of life; and are even sometimes elevated to high political 
stations. 

11. The Spice Islands, or Moluccas, produce the precious spices, 
cloves, nutmegs, and mace. Gilolo, Ceram, Bouro, Banda, and Amboy- 
na, are the principal islands. Nassau, a small town on the island of 
Neira, is the residence of the Dutch governor. 

12. The Philippine Islands form an extensive group of two large 
and a number of small islands. They are very rich in natural re¬ 
sources, and furnish many valuable articles of commerce. They 
belong to Spain; but the inhabitants are chiefly of the native races, 
Tagalas, Bisayas, &c. Among some of these are several small inde¬ 
pendent states. Manilla, the capital of all the Spanish colonies in the 
east, is a large and flourishing city. It is the centre of an extensive 
commerce, and its harbour is thronged with European, American, and 
Chinese vessels. 


Map No. 16. —- What great circle passes through the middle of Malay¬ 
sia ? Er. — In what ?one is Malaysia ? Td. — How long is Sumatra ? 
Java? Celebes? Luzon? Mindanao? How long and wide is Bor¬ 
neo ? What is the population of Sumatra ? Java ? Borneo ? Celebes ? 
Philippine Islands? Manilla? Batavia? Samarang ? Acheen ? 
Palambang ? What strait separates Sumatra from Malacca ? Ma. — 
Sumatra from Java ? Sa. — Borneo from Celebes ? Mr. — How wide 
are the straits of Sunda ? 


6. Sumatra? 7. Java? 8. Batavia? 9. Borneo ? 10. Sooloo Is. ? 

11. Spice Is.? 12. Philippine Is. ? Manilla? 






AUSTRALASIA 


• 325 


204 



Convicts landing at Botany Bay. 


AUSTRALASIA. 


1. Australasia comprises a number of islands lying 
south-eastward from Malaysia: of these, Australia or New 
Holland, New Guinea, and New Zealand, are the most exten¬ 
sive. The inhabitants belong chiefly to the black race called 
Papuan Negroes, and are among the most degraded of the 
human family. 

2. Australia, formerly called New Holland, is the largest island in 
the world. It is claimed by the British government, who have laid it 
off into two great divisions: the western is called New Holland, and the 
eastern New South Wales. The Blue Mountains are the highest range, 
and the Murray the largest river, yet discovered. 

3. The aborigines of 
Australia are very rude 
and degraded : those in 
the interior exist on roots, 
grubs, worms, and what 
little they kill in the 
chase. Those on the 
coast live mostly by fishi 
ing, yet their canoes are 
of the rudest description: 

Australasia. Q. — 1. What is said of Australasia? 2. Australia? 
New Holland ? New South Wales ? 3. Describe the aborigines. 4. 




















326 


DESCRIPTIVE GEOGRAPHY. 


some are merely a large piece of bark folded and tied up at each end, 
and some only a log on which they sit and guide with their hands. 

4. In the south-east part of Australia is the Botany Bay Colony, 
founded in 1787 : to this place many thousands of criminals have been 
banished from Great Britain. The bulk of the population is, however, 
formed of free settlers : to these, the convicts, as they arrive from Britain, 
are apportioned as labourers during the period for which they were 
sentenced. 

5. The Colony extends along the coast about three hundred miles: it 
is divided into a number of counties, and contains several towns: Syd¬ 
ney, the capital, has a good harbour, with considerable commerce. 

The country is in general better adapted for grazing than tillage, 
sheep are abundant, and their wool forms a large part of the exports: 
wheat, Indian-corn, and potatoes, are the principal crops raised in New 
South Wales. 

6. On the west side of Australia is the Swan River Colony : 
several towns have been laid out, but no great improvement has yet 
taken place. Some distance to the south-east is the recent settlement 
of King George’s Sound, called Albany. 

7. Van Diemen’s Land, or Tasmania, is nearly equal in size to South 
Carolina. It was settled in 1804, in a manner similar to the Botany 
Bay Colony : its climate is colder, but its productions are nearly the 
same ; about one-third of the population are convicts : Hobart Town, the 
capital, is a flourishing and thriving place. 

8. New Zealand comprises two large and one small island. The 
area of the whole is about equal to that of the State of Virginia. The 
soil is fertile and produces Indian-corn, yams, potatoes, and a species 
of strong and serviceable flax. The natives are a finely-formed race 
of savages, but very warlike and ferocious, and are known to be canni¬ 
bals. They belong to the Malay variety of the human family. 

9. Tattooing is practised to a great extent amongst them, and the 
faces of the chiefs are often entirely covered over with various regular 

figures. In the northern island there are 
several missionary stations, at which 300 or 
400 New Zealand youths are receiving educa¬ 
tion ; an evident improvement is taking place 
among many of the tribes, and wars are much 
less frequent than formerly. 

10. Papua, or New Guinea is believed to be 
one of the most fertile countries in the world, 
but the interior parts have never been explored. 
Louisiade, New Britain, New Ireland, Solo- 
„ r~r J . , MON ’ s Archipelago. the New Hebrides, and 
New Zealand Chief. New Caledonia occupy the north-eastern part 



Botany Bay Colony. 5. What is said of it? Sydney ? Country, &c.? 

6. Swan River Colony. 7. Van Diemen’s Land ? 8. New Zealand ? 

9. What is said of tattooing? 10. Of Papua, &c. ? Louisiadq, &c, ? 






POLYNESIA. 



327 

of Australia, and are but little known- The inhabitants of these islands, 
like all savages, are divided into petty tribes, and are at constant war 
with each other. 


Map No. 16. — What great circle forms the north boundary of 
Australasia? Er. — What tropic crosses Australia? Cn. — In what 
zones is Australasia? Td., S.-Te. — How long and wide are Australia 
and Van Diemen’s Land ? How long are New Guinea and the two 
largest islands of New Zealand ? What strait separates Australia and 
New Guinea ? Ts. — Australia and Van Diemen’s Land ? Bs. — How 
wide are they ? What island is inhabited by convicts from New South 
Wales? Nk. — What is the population of the Botany Bay Colony ? 
Van Diemen’s Land? New Hebrides? Now Caledonia? Swan 
River Colony ? Sydney ? Hobart Town ? How far is it from Hobart 
Town to London? To New York? 

- 205 - 


1. Polynesia comprises the numerous groups of islands 
situated in the Pacific Ocean between Malaysia, Australasia, 
and South America. The climate of this region is similar to 
that of the West Indies, but is more mild and regular. 

2. The most useful products of Polynesia are the bread¬ 
fruit, yams, taro root, sweet potatoes, plantains, bananas, and 
cocoa-nuts, besides various fruits, comprising oranges, limes, 
citrons, pine-apples, guavas, figs, &c. 


Sandwich Islanders burning an Idol. 

POLYNESIA. 


Polynesia. Q. — 1. Describe Polynesia. 2. Products. 3. The peo- 












328 


DESCRIPTIVE GEOGRAPHY. 

3. The people of Polynesia are in general mild and gentle, yet fierce 
and warlike when stimulated by some particular object; and their con¬ 
tests have been carried on with such ferocity, that some islands have 
been entirely depopulated; they were much addicted to various cruel 
and barbarous customs, to which their native religion gave full sanction, f 
of which the sacrificing of human beings, the eating of human flesh, i 
and the murder of infants, were common. These practices, though not 
so general as formerly, have not entirely ceased. 

4. The Ladrone Islands were the first known to Europeans of any 
in this region, having been discovered by Magellan in 1512. The ori 
ginal inhabitants have been nearly all exterminated by the Spaniards. 

The Caroline Islands are but little known, being situated in a tem¬ 
pestuous ocean and exposed to furious hurricanes. These islands, with 
the Ladrones, both belong to Spain. 

5. The Sandwich Islands are the most important and interesting 1 
of this region. Hawaii or Owhyhee is the largest of the group: its j 
area is nearly equal to that of the State of Connecticut. 

The people in 1819 destroyed their idols and embraced Christianity. \ 

6. A number of missionaries from the United States are residing 
here, and a large proportion of the inhabitants have been taught reading, 
writing, and arithmetic. Churches have been erected: the press has 
been for some time in operation, at which school-books, the Scriptures, 
newspapers, &c. are printed in the language of the country. 

7. The town of Honolulu, in the island of Oahu, is the capital of the 
Sandwich islands : it contains about 5000 inhabitants, of whom 100 are 
whites. Great commercial activity prevails here : many American and 
European ships are always in port, and a considerable number of small 
vessels belong to the natives. 

8. The Mendana Archipelago comprises the Marquesas and Wash¬ 
ington islands: they are very fertile, and furnish food to the inhabitants ' 
almost without labour; the people are among the most finely formed of 
any known race, and are but little darker than Southern Europeans. 

9. The Society and Georgian Islands are remarkable for being the 
first in Polynesia, of which the inhabitants embraced Christianity. 
Otaheite, or Tahiti, the largest of the Georgian islands, is one of the 
finest in this quarter of the world. Dancing, once the chief amusement ■ 
of the people, was performed on all occasions of pleasure, worship, state, 
or ceremony, but is now less practised than formerly. 

The Pearl or Paumotu Islands are a numerous range of small 
islands; they are but little known, and many of them are uninhabited. 
The Austral, Hervey, and Palliser Islands are situated at various 
distances from Otaheite; the people speak a language similar to that 
of the Otaheiteans, and have all been converted to Christianity by the 
missionaries. 


pie, «fec. 4. Ladrone. Caroline. 5. Sandwich islands. 6. What is 
said of the missionaries? 7. Honolulu? 8. Mendana Archipelago? 

9. Society and Georgian Is.? Pearl? Austral, &c. ? 10. Friendly 




POLYNESIA 


329 



Otalieitean Dance. 


10. The Friendly Islands comprise the Navigator’s, Tonga, Habaai, 
and Feejee islands; the inhabitants of the latter are the most ferocious 
and savage of any in Polynesia; they are large and muscular, and of 
very dark complexions. In the Tonga and Habaai islands, upwards 
of 2,000 children are instructed in the schools, and the church numbers 
upwards of 1,100 native members. 

11. Pitcairn’s Island is settled by the descendants of the mutineers 
of the ship Bounty : the inhabitants are an amiable, religious, and 
moral people, and speak the English language. The Central Archi¬ 
pelago, and the Archipelagoes of Magellan and Anson, are composed 
of a number of small islands: they are but little known, and are seldom 
visited. 

The Bonin Islands are settled by a colony comprising a few Ameri¬ 
can and English sailors, who took wives with them from the Sandwich 
islands. 

Map No. 16.— What great circles pass through Polynesia? T.-Cr., 
Er., T.-Cn. — What zones is Polynesia in? N.-Te., Td., S.-Te.— 
What is the population of the Sandwich islands ? Washington Is. ? 
Marquesas Is.? Society and Georgian Is.? Paumotu Is.? Cook’s 
Is. ? Austral Is. ? Navigator’s Is. ? Vavou ? Habaai Is. ? Tonga Is. ? 
Feejee Is. ? Gambier Is. ? Pitcairn's I. ? Easter I. ? How far is it from 
the Sandwich Islands to London ? To New York? To the coast of 
Mexico ? To the Columbia River ? To China ? From the Marquesas 
to the coast of Peru ? What islands have been converted to the Christian 
religion ? Which have been partially converted ? How many miles does 
the Pacific ocean extend from east to west ? From north to south ? 


islands? Tonga, &c.? 11. Pitcairn’s island ? Central Archipelago, 

&c. ? Bonin islands ? 


THE END. 






























































































































































T% 




































